PORTLAND, Oregon, January 10 — Federal authorities have identified the two people shot by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent in Portland as Venezuelan nationals who entered the country without legal status. The shooting occurred during a vehicle stop that escalated when the driver allegedly tried to run over agents.
What happened in the Portland shooting?
The incident occurred just after 2:15 p.m. PST on Thursday near Adventist Health Portland. According to the Department of Homeland Security, Border Patrol agents were conducting a “targeted vehicle stop.” DHS stated the driver “weaponised” the vehicle and attempted to run over the agents, prompting one agent to fire in self-defence. The injured individuals were identified as Luis David Nico Moncada and Yorlenys Betzabeth Zambrano-Contreras. Both were hospitalized with gunshot wounds—Moncada in the arm and Zambrano-Contreras in the chest. They drove away from the scene but were later located by police.
Why does this incident matter now?
The shooting occurs amid heightened national tension following the fatal police shooting of Renee Nicole Good in Minneapolis a day earlier. Portland Police Chief Bob Day urged the community to remain calm as investigations proceed. Furthermore, DHS claims both individuals are linked to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, alleging the passenger was affiliated with a prostitution ring and a recent local shooting. These specific gang ties have not yet been independently verified by local law enforcement.
Who is investigating the shooting?
The FBI is spearheading the investigation into the incident, which is being treated as an assault on a federal officer. Separately, Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield has begun an inquiry into the actions of the federal agents involved. This dual investigation underlines the seriousness of the incident and the role of several levels of law enforcement.
What are the key unresolved questions?
More research and evidence are required to back DHS’s core claims, which focus on the vehicle’s alleged gang ties and immediate threat. The condition of the two injured individuals and the results of the independent review by the Oregon Attorney General’s office will be closely monitored. The incident also brings renewed focus to protocols and use of force during federal immigration enforcement operations within city limits.
