San Bernardino Man's Car Struck By Federal Immigration Agent Gunfire

James

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Post on Aug 18, 2025

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San Bernardino Man's Car Struck by Federal Immigration Agent Gunfire: Investigation Underway

San Bernardino, CA – October 26, 2023 – A San Bernardino man is recovering after his vehicle was struck by gunfire allegedly discharged by a federal immigration agent. The incident, which occurred late Tuesday evening near the intersection of Base Line and E Street, has sparked outrage and raised serious questions about the use of force by federal law enforcement.

The incident involved 32-year-old Ricardo Hernandez, a local resident who was driving home from work when his car was hit by several bullets. Hernandez, thankfully, sustained only minor injuries, primarily from shattered glass. However, the psychological impact of the event is still being assessed. His vehicle, a 2015 Honda Civic, sustained significant damage and is currently being held as evidence.

Witness Accounts and Conflicting Narratives

Initial reports suggest that the federal immigration agent, whose identity has not yet been publicly released, fired their weapon after a high-speed chase. However, witnesses on the scene offer conflicting accounts, some claiming the chase was far less dramatic and that Hernandez posed no immediate threat. The discrepancy in these accounts is central to the ongoing investigation being conducted by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Office of Inspector General.

“It was terrifying,” stated Maria Sanchez, a witness who was at a nearby gas station during the incident. “I saw the car speeding past, followed closely by a government vehicle. Then there were shots. It all happened so fast.”

The Crucial Role of Body Cameras and Dashcams

The availability of body camera footage from the involved agent and dashcam footage from nearby vehicles could be pivotal in determining the sequence of events and whether the use of deadly force was justified. The release of this evidence is expected to be a key focus of the investigation. Many legal experts are emphasizing the importance of transparency in this case to restore public trust and ensure accountability.

Calls for Transparency and Accountability

The incident has ignited widespread calls for transparency and accountability from local community leaders and civil rights organizations. Protests have been planned for the coming days, demanding a thorough and independent investigation into the shooting. The lack of immediate clarity surrounding the circumstances has fuelled concerns about potential excessive force and racial profiling. The National Immigration Law Center has already issued a statement expressing deep concern and demanding a full and transparent investigation. [Link to NILC statement]

The Long Road to Justice and Healing

The investigation into this shooting is still in its early stages. While Hernandez is physically recovering, the emotional scars of this incident will likely take far longer to heal. The outcome of this investigation will not only impact the individuals involved but will also serve as a crucial precedent for the use of force by federal immigration agents in similar situations.

Keywords: San Bernardino shooting, federal immigration agent, police shooting, excessive force, DHS investigation, civil rights, accountability, transparency, Ricardo Hernandez, Base Line and E Street, Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General, National Immigration Law Center

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