Federal Charges Filed in NYC Shooting Incident

The Trump administration has brought federal charges against two undocumented immigrants linked to the shooting death of a border officer in New York City.

On Thursday, federal prosecutors charged Miguel Francisco Mora Nuñez with one count of being an accessory after the fact, along with possession of ammunition. His accomplice, Christian Eval Velour, is also involved in the case. Both men are Dominican nationals residing illegally in the U.S., and they allegedly targeted Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials during a robbery attempt in early July.

“It’s difficult to understand, but Mora Nuñez and Velour went to a park in New York City where Mora Nuñez opened fire,” one official stated.

“Gun violence will not be taken lightly,” an official emphasized. “Our office is committed to relentlessly pursuing anyone who endangers the safety of New Yorkers and our federal officers.”

According to prosecutors, the incident unfolded on July 19, 2025, in Washington Park, Manhattan. The two men allegedly ambushed CBP officers who were socializing. Mora Nuñez attempted to rob one of the officers, shooting him in the face and arm. Fortunately, the officer managed to return fire, injuring Mora Nuñez.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) released security footage capturing the alarming incident.

The pair was taken into custody earlier this week, as confirmed by DHS. Both have lengthy criminal records in New York City.

Mora Nuñez had previously been arrested by the NYPD in October 2023 for felony grand larceny, petty theft, and reckless driving. After several more arrests between 2024 and early 2025 for similar offenses, he had a long history of run-ins with law enforcement.

Similarly, Velour was arrested in May 2023 for reckless endangerment, with additional arrests following in subsequent years for various theft-related charges. He had been conditionally discharged in June 2025 after pleading guilty to a consolidation of earlier charges.

“Today’s announcement underscores HSI New York’s relentless dedication to addressing threats and protecting our community,” stated a spokesperson, highlighting collaboration among various agencies.

In the context of escalating tensions between the Trump administration and New York officials, these incidents raise concerns over the city’s sanctuary laws, which restrict local law enforcement’s cooperation with federal immigration agencies. This week, the DOJ announced a lawsuit against New York City Mayor Eric Adams and other officials over these policies.