U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents shot two people—believed to be a married couple—outside a medical clinic in Southeast Portland. Witnesses reported the incident, which took place around 2:25 p.m. near Adventist Medical Center.
According to police sources, one person was shot in the leg and the other in the chest, but their current medical conditions remain unknown. The FBI has taken charge of the investigation and confirmed that the shooting stemmed from an attempted traffic stop.
Assistant Secretary of Homeland Security, Tricia McLaughlin, indicated that the agents were trying to stop a vehicle driven by a Venezuelan individual linked to a transnational prostitution ring. This individual had previously been involved in violence in Portland. When agents approached, McLaughlin claimed the driver attempted to run over the officers, prompting one agent to fire in self-defense.
Witness accounts describe the chaotic scene. A man in the parking lot saw federal agents trying to corner a Toyota truck. He observed them pound on the window before the driver reversed and collided with another car. As the truck sped away, officers fired multiple shots.
Portland police later found the couple nearby with gunshot wounds and provided emergency medical assistance.
Residents expressed alarm over the incident. Police Chief Bob Day emphasized the need for calm during this ongoing situation, especially in light of recent tensions related to shootings involving federal agents, such as the one in Minneapolis that happened just days before.
Portland Mayor Keith Wilson condemned the shooting and urged federal immigration officials to halt operations in the city until an investigation is complete. He voiced concerns over what he perceives as excessive force by federal agents.
Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for transparency and accountability when such incidents occur. “Oregonians deserve clear answers when people are injured in their neighborhoods,” he stated.
This shooting is part of a broader discussion regarding the role of federal agents in urban areas. Recent data suggests residents are increasingly uneasy about the presence and tactics of these agents. For instance, a survey by the Oregon Public Opinion Research project found that 68% of Oregonians believe there should be stricter oversight of federal law enforcement activities in their communities.
As this situation unfolds, it is clear that conversations about policing, use of force, and community safety are more relevant than ever. The outcome of this investigation and its implications for federal oversight in Portland remains to be seen.
For further updates, check reliable sources like The Oregonian or the Portland Police Bureau.
