Friday, Portland, Oregon — A man and a woman shot by a US immigration agent during a traffic stop in Portland on Thursday have alleged links to the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua, according to local and federal authorities.
Portland Police Chief Bob Day confirmed on Friday that both individuals “do have some involvement” with the gang. However, he did not share details about the level or nature of their connection.
What Happened During the Traffic Stop
Federal officials said the incident happened when immigration agents conducted a traffic stop. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the driver attempted to run over an agent with the vehicle.
Fearing for his life, the agent opened fire. Despite being wounded, the driver continued driving with the passenger and fled the scene.
Authorities said the pair later drove about five miles to an apartment complex, where they called for emergency medical help.
Both individuals are currently hospitalized, conscious, and recovering, according to police.
Who Are the Two People Shot?
DHS identified the driver as Luis David Nino-Moncada, who allegedly entered the US illegally in 2022. Officials said he has previous arrests, including for driving under the influence (DUI) and unauthorised use of a vehicle.
The passenger was identified as Yorlenys Betzabeth Zambrano-Contreras, who reportedly crossed into the US illegally near El Paso, Texas, in 2023.
DHS claims Zambrano-Contreras played an active role in a Tren de Aragua-linked prostitution ring and was previously connected to a shooting incident in Portland.
Federal officials also clarified that reports describing the two as a married couple are incorrect.
Alleged Gang Connections in Portland
Chief Day said the pair had a “nexus” to a July shooting in Portland, where the victim claimed members of Tren de Aragua were involved. He did not provide further details.
He also acknowledged that Tren de Aragua has a presence in Portland but said it is not as widespread as some reports suggest.
“This information is not meant to justify or condemn what happened,” Day said. “We remain committed to facts, the rule of law, and maintaining public trust.”
Charges Still Unclear
It remains unclear whether Nino-Moncada or Zambrano-Contreras will face criminal charges related to Thursday’s incident.
The shooting came just one day after another immigration agent fatally shot a driver in Minneapolis, an incident that has since drawn scrutiny and conflicting accounts from authorities.
Protests Follow Immigration Enforcement
Following the Portland shooting, hundreds of protesters gathered outside an immigration detention centre on Thursday night. Police said six people were arrested for disorderly conduct.
DHS recently deployed immigration agents to several US cities, including Portland, Minneapolis, Los Angeles, and Chicago, as part of ongoing enforcement and deportation operations.
Investigations into Thursday’s shooting are ongoing.