ICE Officer Struck by Vehicle While Attempting Arrest in New Jersey

In a recent incident in Manahawkin, New Jersey, an undocumented immigrant allegedly struck an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer with his vehicle while trying to evade arrest, according to ICE officials.

The operation aimed to apprehend Friedrich Castillo-Ormeno, a Peruvian national who had been released into the U.S. during President Joe Biden’s administration. An immigration judge had ordered his deportation set for January 30, 2026. The Stafford Township Police Department (STPD) reportedly received details about the situation via a Facebook notification at approximately 9:30 a.m.

ICE stated that their officers attempted to conduct a vehicle stop when the suspect allegedly used his car as a weapon, resulting in the officer discharging his firearm in response. The driver managed to escape the scene and remains at large.

According to ICE officials, the injured officer was taken to a local hospital for medical care. The FBI and local law enforcement are currently involved in the ongoing investigation, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

ICE highlighted a concerning trend, noting a dramatic increase, about 3,300%, in vehicular attacks against their personnel.

STPD clarified that they are not handling the investigation but are acting on guidance from New Jersey’s former Attorney General Gurbir Grewal. This direction is part of the state’s Immigration Trust Directive, which limits how local law enforcement can assist federal immigration enforcement.

Residents are being advised to steer clear of the area while the investigation unfolds.