ICE Shooting Incident in Patterson, California

On April 7, 2026, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents shot Carlos Ivan Mendoza Hernandez during a targeted vehicle stop in Patterson, California. The incident occurred around 11 a.m. near the off-ramp of Interstate 5 and Spencer Avenue, as agents attempted to arrest Mendoza Hernandez, an alleged member of the 18th Street Gang wanted in El Salvador for questioning in connection to a murder. According to Todd Lyons, the acting director of ICE, Mendoza Hernandez "weaponized his vehicle" in an attempt to run over an officer, prompting the agents to fire defensive shots.

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This shooting follows a series of controversial incidents involving ICE and other federal agents, including the fatal shootings of two American citizens during immigration enforcement actions in Minnesota earlier this year. These events have intensified scrutiny and criticism of federal immigration enforcement tactics, with calls for accountability from various political factions.

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Todd Lyons stated, "Following their training, our officers fired defensive shots to protect themselves, their fellow agents, and the public." The Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office is assisting with the investigation, and the FBI is also on the scene. California Governor Gavin Newsom has been briefed on the situation and emphasized the importance of collaboration between federal and local law enforcement during the investigation.

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The shooting has drawn criticism, particularly in light of previous incidents involving ICE agents. Critics argue that the phrase "weaponized his vehicle" has been used inappropriately to justify lethal force in past encounters, raising concerns about the escalation of violence in immigration enforcement. The administration's accounts of such incidents have sometimes changed over time, leading to skepticism regarding the official narratives.

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While ICE maintains that Mendoza Hernandez attempted to run over an officer, the details surrounding the incident remain unclear, including the current condition of Mendoza Hernandez following the shooting. Additionally, the circumstances of previous shootings involving ICE agents, such as those resulting in the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti, have been contested, with differing accounts from witnesses and officials.

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The investigation into the shooting is ongoing, with the Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI conducting inquiries. Roads around the incident site are expected to remain closed for the duration of the investigation. As this situation develops, further updates from law enforcement and government officials are anticipated.

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• “ “As officers approached the car, the wanted gang member weaponized his vehicle in an attempt to run an officer over.” — Todd Lyons, Acting Director of ICE

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• “As is established practice, we expect our federal law enforcement partners to appropriately collaborate with state and local law enforcement as this matter is investigated,” — California Governor Gavin Newsom

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