San Bernardino Immigration Agent Opens Fire on Vehicle with Occupants: Shocking Incident During Operation

San Bernardino police responded to an incident involving federal immigration officers on Saturday morning. The event unfolded on Acacia Avenue and Baseline Street just before 9 a.m. Immigration agents reported that they fired on a suspect who fled the scene.

Shortly after, a man called the police. He claimed masked men had tried to pull him over, broke his car window, and shot at him. He had no idea who they were and asked for help.

A spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that agents were carrying out a targeted operation in the area. They said Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers were injured when a suspect tried to run them down. The spokesperson mentioned that a CBP officer fired their weapon in self-defense after being struck by the suspect’s vehicle.

The Inland Coalition for Immigrant Justice claimed that agents smashed the driver and passenger windows of the vehicle and fired shots. They uploaded video evidence showing agents in “police” vests trying to get the driver to roll down the window. The driver, refusing to comply, stated, “No la voy a abrir.” Moments later, glass shattered and shots were heard.

The video captured the vehicle leaving the scene, but it didn’t show the driver hitting the officers. Community leaders condemned the actions of federal agents, arguing that firing at civilians and harassing families without just cause is unacceptable.

Later, police found the vehicle in a different location and contacted the driver, but it was unclear why federal agents were after him. Under California law, local law enforcement cannot assist in immigration enforcement, so police left the scene.

Interestingly, the DHS spokesperson misidentified the local police department and claimed officers had the man in custody, only to release him later, which they criticized as an example of California’s immigration policies shielding alleged criminals.

At 1:12 p.m., federal officers asked local police for help because a crowd had formed while they tried to make the arrest. They stated that the man was wanted for allegedly assaulting a federal officer.

The Inland Coalition for Immigrant Justice highlighted concerns over the arrest process, claiming agents did not show a warrant and pressured the individual until late afternoon. They added that some community members were detained using excessive force, including one for merely speaking out.

The police clarified that this was not an immigration-related arrest and assured the public they were supporting federal agents in a lawful arrest process. Investigations are ongoing regarding the shooting incident.

This event reflects broader concerns about the intersection of local law enforcement and federal immigration actions, especially in California, where policies often aim to prioritize community safety over immigration enforcement. Recent surveys indicate that a significant portion of California residents supports these protective measures, showcasing the ongoing debate around immigration policy in the region.



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