URGENT UPDATE: A shocking incident involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Vancouver is under investigation after a video surfaced allegedly showing an agent running over a man’s foot during an arrest. The incident, which occurred on October 12, 2023, has raised serious concerns and prompted a response from local authorities.
Witness videos reveal that during the arrest of 27-year-old Jose Guadulupe Paniagua Calderon at the intersection of Fourth Plain and Grand Boulevards, at least one ICE agent moved Calderon’s Jeep while he was on the ground, resulting in visible distress as he screamed in pain. Eyewitness accounts have confirmed the troubling nature of the situation, leading to a formal investigation by the Vancouver Police Department.
In a statement released late Friday, the Vancouver Police announced they would conduct a traffic investigation to gather all relevant facts regarding the vehicle allegedly involved in the incident. “Based on the information regarding a vehicle that is alleged to have struck a person within the city limits of Vancouver, the Vancouver Police Department will be conducting a traffic investigation,” the release stated.
Calderon’s brother, Ulises Paniagua, spoke to The Oregonian/OregonLive, expressing his deep concern. He confirmed that his brother was detained and later located at the Tacoma Detention Center around 10 p.m. Thursday evening. However, when Ulises arrived at the detention center before 8 a.m. on Friday, he was denied access to see his brother. “More than anything, this is very disturbing,” Ulises said in Spanish, highlighting the lack of information provided by authorities about his brother’s condition.
The incident occurs amid a backdrop of escalating immigration arrests across the region, reflecting the aggressive policies implemented under the previous administration. Many have criticized ICE for its use of force during arrests, which often involve agents in civilian attire and unmarked vehicles.
As of now, ICE officials have not responded to inquiries regarding the incident. Ulises emphasized that his brother is a hardworking individual with no criminal record, employed in roofing. A check of Clark County court records revealed no criminal convictions associated with Calderon.
This developing story raises significant questions about the treatment of detainees and the protocols followed by ICE during arrests. Authorities are under increasing scrutiny as the investigation unfolds.
NEXT STEPS: The Vancouver Police Department’s investigation is ongoing, and more updates are expected as they gather information. Community members are urged to stay informed about the situation, and further developments are anticipated regarding Calderon’s condition and the actions of the ICE agents involved.
As this story continues to unfold, it sparks urgent discussions about immigration enforcement practices and the human impact of these actions. Stay tuned for more updates as the situation develops.
