Plainclothes ICE agent with long gun looked like mass shooter, Mayor Mamdani says
Key Points:
- Mayor Zohran Mamdani criticized ICE's tactics after an agent shot and wounded Oscar Belgal, a Dominican immigrant, in the Bronx, calling the operation dangerously reckless and likening the agent's appearance to a mass shooter.
- The incident, which occurred while Belgal was in a moving car with his young son, sparked protests and renewed scrutiny of ICE operations in New York City; the Bronx District Attorney is investigating the shooting.
- Mamdani condemned ICE for disregarding the law, called for an end to their operations in NYC, and announced a full review of the incident and the NYPD's response to subsequent protests.
- The Trump administration defended the shooting, alleging Belgal "weaponized his vehicle," while Mamdani rejected requests from federal officials to detain Belgal without a warrant.
- Despite unsuccessful negotiations to secure Belgal's release from ICE custody, Mamdani affirmed his commitment to protecting the city and continuing talks with federal authorities.