Jessica Tisch responded after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents shot Oscar Belgal in New York City on Thursday while his 5-year-old son was in the back seat. Belgal was later arrested after federal authorities said he tried to ram officers with his vehicle.
The boy was unharmed and later with family members. Bodycam footage released today showed New York City police arriving at the scene, while DHS said Belgal had been transferred to an undisclosed detention facility outside New York.
Oscar Belgal in New York City
Marcos Charles said Belgal was struck superficially in the neck by one of the bullets or fragments. He said Belgal stopped his vehicle, received first aid information, and was taken to the hospital after the shooting.
Federal authorities said agents were trying to arrest Belgal when he fled and that they fired at least seven rounds because they believed their lives were in danger. They also said they were unaware a child was in the back seat.
Mayor Mamdani and New York Governor
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani called the shooting an outrage and said, “Let me say this plainly.” He added, “Tonight, a 5-year-old child sits traumatized and terrified. Tonight, millions of our neighbors are wondering whether they will be safe on our streets, in our schools, at their worksites.”
Mayor Mamdani and New York Governor Kathy Hochul also talked with President Trump about Belgal's release and to stop immigration enforcement operations in New York. Protesters gathered at the site Thursday night, and the crowd clashed with police.
Markwayne Mullin said, “It is shameful that we're giving this particular case so much attention when this was a thug.” He also said, “Sanctuary politicians, they create an environment for criminal activity to thrive, not for the American citizens to be safe. Underneath President Trump, he made it very clear he was going to restore law and order in our cities and our towns and our states, despite what happens with career politicians that put criminals in front of law-abiding citizens.”
The release of bodycam footage and the transfer of Belgal to a facility outside New York keep the case active while the aftermath in New York City centers on what led ICE agents to shoot at the car after Belgal allegedly tried to flee.
