Veteran left paralyzed following reported shooting by undocumented migrant

Family of Marine Veteran Fights for Recovery After Shooting Incident

The family of a US Marine veteran, Jimmy Friesenhaan, is voicing their frustrations after he was shot three times in early May, allegedly by an illegal immigrant. Emmanuel Martinez, Friesenhaan’s stepbrother, spoke out, highlighting what he views as a troubling trend: “These people who are illegal in this country seem to be more easily released than regular citizens who, say, get a DUI.” He noted that Friesenhaan is still hospitalized and fighting for his life.

Friesenhaan’s sisters, Martinez and Becky Borjong, shared their anguish on “America Report,” emphasizing how devastating the situation has been for their family. They mentioned that Friesenhaan was shot twice in his bulletproof vest and once in the neck, resulting in paralysis.

Wilmer Vladimir Louis Ortega, the alleged shooter, was taken into custody after the incident at El Patio Sports Bar in San Antonio. Witnesses state that Ortega was seen carrying a gun when he was confronted by Friesenhaan, who was working as a security guard at the time. The shooting has left Friesenhaan unable to speak.

“This is a tragedy that reflects our judicial system’s failure,” Borjon stated, expressing concern over how soft the laws seem to have become for those who commit crimes, especially illegal immigrants. She contrasted this with legal immigrants who come here with good intentions.

Ortega has been charged with aggravated assault and illegal entry, and it was reported that he had been arrested at least three times without being held for immigration issues. The Bexar County District Attorney’s office commented that they are in contact with the victim’s family as the case unfolds.

“The intention was not just to assault but to kill,” Borjon insisted, pointing out the severity of Ortega’s actions. She criticized how violent incidents involving illegal immigrants seem to recur without substantial consequences.

As the family tries to navigate this painful time, their focus is on Friesenhaan’s recovery. They are exploring options for specialized care at a spinal cord injury center, hoping for advancements in medical technology to help him regain some quality of life. “This has fundamentally changed my brother’s life,” Borjon said, reflecting the long road ahead for their family.