ICE Shooting Incident in Central California: Undocumented Immigrant Shot During Traffic Stop

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 05:33:00 +0200

In Central California, ICE agents shot and wounded Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez, a 36-year-old undocumented immigrant, during a traffic stop. The shooting took place near Patterson, California, when Mendoza Hernandez, who was on his way to work, was stopped for a broken windshield. ICE agents claim they fired defensive shots after Mendoza Hernandez allegedly attempted to run over one of the officers. However, Mendoza Hernandez's attorney disputes this account, stating that the man is not a gang member, as suggested by ICE, and that he was previously acquitted of murder charges in El Salvador. The shooting occurred near Interstate 5, and video footage shows the vehicle maneuvering erratically while surrounded by agents. The incident has raised questions about ICE's training and use of force. Meanwhile, the FBI has taken over the investigation, with local authorities in Stanislaus County assisting. California Governor Gavin Newsom has urged federal authorities to collaborate with state