An off-duty Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer was shot during an attempted robbery in New York City. The suspect, Miguel Francisco Mora Nunez, a previously deported illegal immigrant with active warrants, was involved in the incident. Nune, a Dominican national, was apprehended by Border Patrol in April 2023 and released into the U.S. despite an active deportation order.
During the altercation, the officer was wounded in the face and forearm, while Nune was also injured. Both were taken to hospitals, with the officer expected to recover. The incident occurred in Riverside Park, where Nune approached the officer while he was speaking to someone near a body of water. Authorities have confirmed Nune’s active warrants for kidnapping in Massachusetts and prior felony arrests.
The mayor of New York, Eric Adams, addressed the incident at a press conference on Sunday, stating that Nune had a history of violence and was wanted for several offenses. He emphasized that Nune would be charged for last night’s crimes, potentially adding attempted murder to his record. Former President Donald Trump, also commented on the event, criticizing the Biden administration for allowing previously deported individuals to remain in the country.
The incident comes two months after a report by Fox News Digital highlighted a rise in crimes committed by migrants in the city, including thefts, assaults, and drug crimes. Data revealed that 3,219 migrants across 48 shelters were arrested 4,884 times between January 2023 and October 2024, indicating a growing concern about the safety of communities affected by the influx of individuals without legal status.
These events have sparked a national debate on immigration policies and the safety of law enforcement officers. Critics argue that the current administration’s approach to immigration has led to increased crime rates, while supporters of the current policies highlight the importance of due process and the rule of law. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by border agencies and the need for effective strategies to address the issue of illegal immigration.