ICE Officer Injured in Attempt to Arrest Fleeing Suspect

An officer from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was hurt after a van struck him while fleeing during an arrest operation in Stafford Township, New Jersey, according to police reports.

ICE spokespersons indicated that agents were trying to apprehend Friedrich Castillo-Ormeno, a Peruvian national, on Route 72 in the Manahawkin area around 9:30 a.m.

Witnesses described the scene, noting, “You can see the man’s body twisted and crumpled. As he was twisting, he pulled out a gun and fired at the van.”

Authorities say Castillo-Ormeno was scheduled for deportation by the end of January. However, when ICE agents approached him, he reportedly fled in his van, colliding with one of the officers.

It’s believed the officer discharged his weapon, shattering the rear window of the fleeing vehicle.

Search efforts for Castillo-Ormeno and the van are currently underway.

One local resident recounted the incident to WCAU-TV, saying, “They told him to roll down the window. He was inching forward, clearly nervous.” He added, “As soon as shots were fired, the van’s front was in view, and the officer’s lower body was stuck in his own vehicle.”

Fortunately, officials indicated that the injured officer is expected to recover.

A spokesperson from the Stafford Township Police Department clarified that while they do not participate in ICE operations, they assist with traffic management and securing crime scenes. Moreover, New Jersey’s Immigration Trust Order limits local police cooperation with federal immigration authorities.

New Jersey Republican Rep. Jeff Van Drew commented on the incident, stating, “ICE agents put their lives on the line every day to enforce our nation’s laws and protect our communities. Yet, many politicians and activists continue to demonize those doing their jobs. This incident underscores the dangers they face. I’m relieved the officer is expected to recover, and I will always support ICE and law enforcement.”

The investigation into this incident has now been transferred to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).