Federal immigration officers shot and wounded two people during a vehicle stop outside a Portland hospital Thursday, prompting protests, sharp criticism from city and state leaders, and a federal investigation.
The incident occurred around 2:18 p.m. near Adventist Health hospital, according to the Portland Police Bureau. Police later found a man and a woman with gunshot wounds in a nearby residential area and determined they were injured during an encounter with federal agents. Their conditions were not immediately released, though city officials said both were alive.
The Department of Homeland Security said agents conducted a “targeted vehicle stop” and identified the passenger as a Venezuelan national allegedly affiliated with the Tren de Aragua gang. DHS claimed the driver attempted to run over agents, prompting an officer to fire a “defensive shot.” The vehicle then fled the scene. Authorities said there was no immediate independent confirmation of the account or the alleged gang ties.
The shooting drew hundreds of protesters to the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement building Thursday night. Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield said his office would investigate whether federal officers acted within their lawful authority and would refer potential criminal charges if warranted.
Portland Mayor Keith Wilson and the city council called on ICE to halt operations in the city pending a full investigation, citing concerns over civil rights and public safety. Police Chief Bob Day said the FBI is leading the investigation.
U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley urged protesters to remain peaceful amid heightened tensions.