Story perspectives

New Evidence Challenges Border Patrol Shooting Narrative

2/13/2026

Summary

Story summary

New evidence in October 4 Border Patrol shooting includes body camera footage and texts from agent Charles Exum.
The footage contradicts claims that Martinez rammed the vehicle.
Exum's texts reveal he bragged about the shooting, raising accountability concerns.
Despite charges being dropped, DHS still labels Martinez a "domestic terrorist."
Martinez plans to attend the State of the Union as Rep. Jesús "Chuy" García's guest, hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump.

History

Historical Context

The Border Patrol's controversial practices have drawn scrutiny since the 2010 shooting of unarmed teenager Sergio Adrian Hernandez by agents, which sparked national outrage. The ACLU reported that over 40% of Border Patrol shootings involved unarmed victims. Recent incidents, including the October 4 event with agent Charles Exum, underscore ongoing accountability issues and the urgent need for reform within the Department of Homeland Security.

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Story summary

New evidence in October 4 Border Patrol shooting includes body camera footage and texts from agent Charles Exum.
The footage contradicts claims that Martinez rammed the vehicle.
Exum's texts reveal he bragged about the shooting, raising accountability concerns.
Despite charges being dropped, DHS still labels Martinez a "domestic terrorist."
Martinez plans to attend the State of the Union as Rep. Jesús "Chuy" García's guest, hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump.

1 / 2