ICE Shooting in Marble Hill Involved Child in Car, Authorities Report

An Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent fired seven rounds into a vehicle carrying a five-year-old child during a detention attempt in the Marble Hill neighborhood of Manhattan, officials said. The incident, which occurred around 4 p.m. Thursday, has sparked widespread calls for transparency and public outrage as details continue to emerge.

Details of the Detention Attempt and Shooting

Authorities stated that ICE agents were attempting to detain 28-year-old Oscar Belgal, described by the Department of Homeland Security as an undocumented immigrant with a history of police encounters. As agents moved in, they opened fire, striking Belgal in the neck while his young son sat in the back seat of the vehicle. A single ICE agent was identified as having fired all seven shots.

Police Bodycam Footage Shows Chaotic Aftermath

The New York Police Department (NYPD) released bodycam video showing officers arriving moments after the shooting. The footage captured officers finding Belgal conscious and handcuffed outside his car, surrounded by plainclothes ICE agents. The officers quickly decided to transport Belgal to the nearest hospital, arriving at the emergency room about 90 seconds later.

Injuries and Official Statements

Belgal reportedly suffered a graze wound just below his left ear. Officials also noted that the vehicle was riddled with bullet holes and spent shell casings were found at the scene. In addition to Belgal's injuries, two agents sustained injuries and were treated after one agent's vehicle may have collided with the suspect's car. Authorities emphasized that the child, although present during the shooting, was not injured.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin stated that ICE agents feared for their safety, alleging Belgal accelerated his car and rammed two government vehicles. He also mentioned that agents were unaware a child was in the vehicle at the time. Mullin added, "We identified ourselves and gave lawful orders as we approached the vehicle." According to officials, prior attempts to detain Belgal in September were unsuccessful after he fled.

Suspect Background and Government Response

Belgal, a Dominican Republic national, is reported by NYPD to have prior arrests for robbery and drug possession. Homeland Security officials allege he has ties to a violent street gang. ICE spokesperson Marcos Charles said Belgal refused orders to exit his vehicle before accelerating and colliding with two government vehicles. Following his medical treatment, Belgal was transferred out of New York state to a more secure facility.

Community Reactions and Ongoing Investigations

The shooting unfolded just as a nearby school dismissed students, with witnesses describing the young boy as appearing frozen in shock. The child was subsequently taken from the scene by ICE agents and is now in the care of a family member. Four protesters were arrested outside the hospital for obstructing governmental administration and received desk appearance tickets.

Mayor Zohran Mamdani, present at the scene, condemned the incident and reported unsuccessful attempts to negotiate Belgal's release from ICE custody with President Trump and Secretary Mullin. Mamdani stated, "What happened today was an outrage." As investigations continue, calls for transparency from authorities and community members are growing.

Source: abc7ny.com.