Full Breakdown
High-Speed Chase Involving ICE Agents Ends in St. Paul Crash
2/12/2026, 9:47:43 AM
Incident Overview
On February 11, 2023, a high-speed car chase involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents culminated in a multi-vehicle crash at the intersection of Selby and Western avenues in St. Paul, Minnesota. The incident occurred around 9:40 a.m. when federal agents pursued Alexander Romero-Avila, a Honduran national in the U.S. illegally. Witnesses reported that Romero-Avila drove recklessly, running red lights and reaching speeds of at least 80 miles per hour before crashing into multiple vehicles, including an ICE vehicle.
Immediate Aftermath
The crash resulted in injuries to Romero-Avila, who was transported to a local hospital under a white sheet, raising initial concerns about the severity of his condition. St. Paul Mayor Kaohly Her criticized ICE's actions, stating, "The incident today at Selby and Western underscores the fact that ICE is still present, causing chaos, and putting residents at risk in Saint Paul." Three vehicles were damaged in the crash, and bystanders expressed their anger towards ICE agents, chanting "F*ck ICE" as they gathered at the scene.
Official Responses
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) defended the actions of ICE, with Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin stating that agents were conducting a targeted vehicle stop when Romero-Avila attempted to evade arrest. McLaughlin asserted that no ICE officers or members of the public were injured in the crash, despite the chaos that ensued. Mayor Her reiterated her call for the immediate end of Operation Metro Surge, which has faced increasing scrutiny following violent incidents involving immigration officials in the Twin Cities.
Criticism and Opposition
The incident has intensified calls from local leaders, including Democratic Congresswoman Ilhan Omar, for a reduction in federal immigration presence in Minnesota. Omar described the recent drawdown of 700 immigration agents as "not enough," emphasizing that the "terror campaign must stop." Critics argue that the aggressive tactics employed by ICE endanger public safety and contribute to a climate of fear within immigrant communities.
Conflicting Reports
While DHS maintains that no injuries were sustained by ICE officers or the public, eyewitness accounts suggest otherwise. Witnesses reported seeing multiple bystanders affected by the crash, and some expressed concern over the reckless driving exhibited by federal agents during the pursuit. The St. Paul Police Department confirmed that they were present for crowd control and took witness statements after the incident.
What's Next
The aftermath of this incident may lead to further scrutiny of ICE's operations in Minnesota, particularly regarding the tactics used during pursuits. Local officials and community advocates are likely to continue their push for policy changes aimed at reducing federal immigration enforcement in urban areas, as tensions between federal agents and local communities remain high.
