An Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent was injured after being struck by a vehicle during an arrest operation in Stafford Township, New Jersey, according to law enforcement officials. The agent reportedly fired his weapon after being hit, prompting a multi-agency investigation and an ongoing search for the suspect.
Incident Happened During Arrest Attempt
The incident took place Monday morning at approximately 9:30 a.m. along Route 72 near Mermaid Drive in the Manahawkin area of Stafford Township.
Authorities say an ICE agent was attempting to apprehend a suspect when the individual fled the scene in a van. During the escape, the vehicle struck the agent.
Following the collision, the agent discharged his firearm. Law enforcement sources said bullets struck the van and may have shattered its rear window.
Suspect Fled the Scene
Officials confirmed that the driver of the van fled the area immediately after the incident. The suspect has not yet been identified, and authorities have not released any description of the vehicle or the person being pursued.
Investigators have also not disclosed the reason behind the initial arrest attempt.
The suspect’s condition, as well as whether anyone else was inside the vehicle, remains unknown.
Agent Expected to Recover
The injured ICE agent is reported to be recovering, with sources indicating his injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. Official confirmation of his condition has not yet been released.
Road Closures and Local Response
Route 72 was temporarily closed in both directions between Barnacle Drive and Breakers Drive as police secured the scene and collected evidence.
Local police are not directly investigating the shooting, as it occurred during a federal enforcement operation. Instead, they are assisting with traffic control and perimeter security.
Federal Investigation Underway
The case was initially reviewed by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office before being taken over by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
An FBI spokesperson said details remain limited as the investigation is ongoing.
ICE Operation Under Scrutiny
The incident adds to ongoing scrutiny of enforcement encounters involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations in the United States, particularly those involving high-speed vehicle pursuits.
Officials have not released further information about the suspect or confirmed whether additional charges will be filed once the individual is located.
What Happens Next
Authorities are continuing to search for the van and its driver while reviewing evidence from the scene, including possible ballistic damage to the vehicle.
Further updates are expected as federal investigators reconstruct the events leading up to the collision and shooting.
