US Border Patrol Agent Fires Shot During Vehicle Stop in Portland

On Thursday, January 8, 2026, at approximately 2:19 PM PST, a significant incident involving US Border Patrol agents occurred during a targeted vehicle stop in Portland, Oregon. The operation was part of ongoing efforts to address illegal immigration and criminal activities associated with transnational gangs.

Key Details

The vehicle stop was initiated by US Border Patrol agents who were acting on intelligence regarding the occupants of the vehicle. The passenger, identified as a Venezuelan illegal alien, is reportedly affiliated with the Tren de Aragua, a notorious transnational gang known for its involvement in various criminal enterprises, including prostitution. This gang has been linked to a recent shooting incident in Portland, raising concerns about its activities in the region.

The driver of the vehicle is also believed to be a member of the Tren de Aragua gang. Upon the agents identifying themselves, the driver attempted to evade law enforcement by weaponizing the vehicle, aiming to run over the agents present at the scene. This aggressive action prompted one of the agents to fire a defensive shot in an effort to protect themselves and their colleagues.

Following the gunfire, the driver managed to flee the scene with the passenger, further complicating the situation. The US Border Patrol has indicated that this incident is evolving, and additional information will be released as it becomes available.

Background

The Tren de Aragua gang, originating from Venezuela, has gained notoriety for its violent activities and extensive criminal networks that span multiple countries. The gang has been implicated in various crimes, including human trafficking and drug smuggling, making it a focal point for law enforcement agencies in the United States and Latin America. The recent shooting incident associated with the gang in Portland underscores the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in combating organized crime linked to illegal immigration.

Portland has seen an increase in crime rates related to gang activities in recent years, prompting federal and local law enforcement agencies to enhance their collaboration in addressing these issues. The involvement of Border Patrol agents in urban settings reflects a broader strategy to tackle the complexities of immigration and crime in metropolitan areas.

What"s Next

The US Border Patrol is expected to continue its investigation into the incident and the activities of the Tren de Aragua gang in the Portland area. As previously reported, similar situations involving Border Patrol have raised concerns about the use of force and the implications for community relations. The agency will likely release further updates regarding the ongoing investigation and any subsequent actions taken against the individuals involved.

For more information on related incidents, see our article on recent developments involving Border Patrol operations in Portland.