Federal Agent Shoots Two Alleged Aragua Train Affiliates

A federal agent shot two individuals in Portland, Oregon, during a traffic stop. The pair, linked to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, were shot after the driver allegedly attempted to use his vehicle as a weapon. This incident has reignited concerns regarding the application of immigration laws under the Trump administration.

Incident Overview

The shooting occurred at approximately 2:19 PM local time. Border Patrol agents had stopped two Venezuelan migrants, identified as Luis David Niño Moncada and Yorlenys Betzabeth Zambrano Contreras. When agents identified themselves, the driver reportedly tried to hit them with the vehicle. A Border Patrol agent then fired in self-defense.

Injuries and Aftermath

• The driver, Niño Moncada, sustained a gunshot wound to his arm.
• Zambrano Contreras was shot in the chest.
• Both were listed in stable condition and taken to a hospital.
• No agents were injured during the incident.

In the hours following the shooting, the FBI took over the investigation, labeling the event as an “attack” on federal agents. Additionally, the Oregon Attorney General has initiated an inquiry to assess whether federal authorities acted within their legal limits.

Background of the Suspects

Nino Moncada and Zambrano Contreras, both illegal immigrants from Venezuela, are allegedly affiliated with Tren de Aragua. Authorities reported that Zambrano has been involved in a prostitution network linked to the gang since her illegal entry into the U.S. in 2023, while Niño Moncada entered in 2022.

Political and Public Reactions

The shooting has spurred strong reactions from local officials and citizens. Portland Mayor Keith Wilson urged ICE to halt operations in the city, expressing distrust towards federal accounts of the incident. He emphasized that Portland should not be a training ground for militarized agents.

• Governor Tina Kotek called for thorough investigations into the use of force by federal agents.
• Senator Kayse Jama urged ICE to withdraw from the community.
• The Multnomah County Board of Commissioners had previously declared an emergency over ICE’s ongoing presence.

Protests erupted shortly after the shooting, resulting in multiple arrests. Officials, including Portland Police Chief Bob Day, praised the protesters for remaining largely peaceful while encouraging continued dialogue about federal actions in the city.

Ongoing Investigations

The investigations will encompass witness interviews, video evidence, and other materials. It remains unclear if federal authorities will cooperate with the state investigation. The aim is to ensure accountability for the actions of federal agents in Portland.

This incident further complicates existing tensions surrounding federal immigration enforcement and community relations in Portland.