A 42-year-old Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer is recovering after being shot in the face and forearm during a violent encounter with an illegal immigrant in New York City's Fort Washington Park late Saturday night.
According to The Western Journal, the suspect has been identified as Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez, a Dominican Republic national who illegally entered the United States in 2023 and remained in the country despite a removal order from an immigration judge. The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that Nunez had been previously apprehended at the border in San Luis, Arizona, in April 2023, but was subsequently released.
The incident occurred just before midnight when the off-duty agent and a female companion were sitting on a rock in the park. Two assailants ambushed them, leading to a physical altercation before shots were fired, leaving the agent with gunshot wounds to his face and left forearm.
Suspect's Extensive Criminal Background Raises Questions
Nunez's presence in the United States has been marked by multiple encounters with law enforcement since his illegal entry. His criminal record includes four arrests in New York City alone, with charges ranging from assault on a pregnant woman to threatening another immigrant with a machete.
The suspect was already wanted on an outstanding warrant from the Leominster Police Department in Massachusetts for an armed robbery that occurred in February. Despite these serious charges, Nunez remained at large and continued to move freely throughout the country.
Local authorities had previously issued several warrants for Nunez's arrest, including one in January following a violation of a protection order in November. These incidents highlight growing concerns about the management of individuals with multiple criminal offenses who remain in the country illegally.
Law Enforcement Response and Political Fallout
CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott praised the wounded officer's bravery in a social media post, emphasizing that the suspect should never have been on American streets. The commissioner's statement underscored the ongoing debate about border security and immigration enforcement.
Mayor Eric Adams addressed the incident by highlighting the city's efforts to remove dangerous individuals from the streets through collaboration with federal partners. However, he noted the limitations placed on local authorities regarding civil deportation matters.
The violent encounter has reignited discussions about immigration policies, with various officials calling for stricter enforcement measures. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement officers, even when off-duty.
Federal Officials Demand Immediate Action
President Trump expressed outrage over the incident on Truth Social, directly linking the attack to current immigration policies. His post emphasized the need for immediate deportation or prosecution of dangerous individuals who enter the country illegally.
The Department of Homeland Security has launched a comprehensive investigation into how Nunez managed to remain in the country despite his criminal history and previous deportation order. The agency is reviewing existing protocols for handling cases involving repeat offenders.
Federal authorities are coordinating with local law enforcement to prevent similar incidents and strengthen the response to individuals who pose a threat to public safety. The focus remains on improving communication between agencies and closing gaps in the system that allow dangerous criminals to evade detection.
Critical Updates on Officer Recovery
The wounded CBP officer is currently listed in stable condition at a local hospital, where medical professionals continue to monitor his recovery. Despite being shot in the face, the agent managed to wound his attacker three times during the exchange of gunfire.
Nunez was later apprehended after seeking medical treatment for his injuries at a nearby hospital. The second suspect involved in the ambush remains at large, prompting an intensive manhunt by New York City police.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for comprehensive immigration reform and stronger enforcement measures to prevent violent crimes committed by individuals who enter the country illegally. Law enforcement agencies are reviewing security protocols to better protect both on-duty and off-duty officers.
