Border Patrol Shooting Victim Released, Faces Charges for Assaulting Federal Officer
The U.S. Border Patrol shooting incident in Portland has escalated, leading to charges against the victims involved. Luis David Nino-Moncada and Yorlenys Betzabeth Zambrano-Contreras were both shot during a confrontation with federal agents on January 8, 2026.
Details of the Incident
The incident began when six Border Patrol agents attempted to stop a red Toyota Tacoma driven by Nino-Moncada. The vehicle allegedly attempted to flee, ramming into one of the agents’ unmarked cars. In response, one agent fired shots, hitting Nino-Moncada in the arm and Zambrano-Contreras in the chest.
Arrests and Charges
- Nino-Moncada faces charges of aggravated assault.
- Zambrano-Contreras has been charged with illegal entry into the U.S.
Both individuals have since been released from the hospital and are currently in federal custody. A preliminary hearing for Nino-Moncada is scheduled for Wednesday, while Zambrano-Contreras has been transferred to the Northwest ICE Processing Center in Tacoma, Washington.
Background Information
Federal investigators believe Nino-Moncada and Zambrano-Contreras are linked to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi stated that assaults on law enforcement would not be tolerated, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges against Nino-Moncada, who is classified as an illegal alien with ties to a foreign organization.
Investigation Status
Federal agencies are currently investigating the shooting. They are seeking video evidence of the incident, but reports indicate that no surveillance footage has yet been found. Investigators have interviewed four of the six Border Patrol agents who were present during the shooting.
Context of Violence
This shooting follows another incident in Minneapolis, where a U.S. citizen was killed by an ICE officer. The quick succession of these events has sparked protests in Portland and heightened public scrutiny of federal immigration enforcement practices.
Previous Encounters
Prior to this incident, Zambrano-Contreras was reportedly involved in a shooting investigation from July 2025. Documents suggest a connection to violent encounters related to her alleged affiliation with Tren de Aragua.
The ongoing investigations continue to unravel the circumstances surrounding both incidents, with legal representatives stating that the basis for the gang affiliations remains tenuous.
