Confrontation between ICE Officers and Alleged Gang Member in California

A tense dashcam video reveals a confrontation in Northern California where an alleged gang member appeared to turn his vehicle into a weapon as ICE officers fired shots. The footage captures officers surrounding a vehicle, attempting to subdue the suspect, who ultimately fled the scene.

The targeted operation aimed to arrest Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez, an 18th Street gang member wanted for murder in El Salvador, according to authorities.

In the video, officers can be seen with their guns drawn as they close in on Hernandez. He then reverses his car, hitting an officer’s vehicle in the process. The situation escalates further when he veers into an oncoming car before speeding away, prompting a chase.

Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons described how Hernandez tried to use his car aggressively against the agents. “As the officer approached, a wanted gang member attempted to run the officer over with his vehicle,” he stated, clarifying that the officer fired back in self-defense to protect himself and the public.

This incident took place on Del Puerto Canyon Road close to Interstate 5. Following the confrontation, Hernandez was transported to a local hospital, though his current condition is still unknown. Federal agents are investigating the matter, and the FBI has been called in to assist with the inquiry.