ICE agent opens fire in New Jersey after being struck by vehicle, ICE says

The FBI is investigating after a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent was struck by a vehicle and then opened fire in New Jersey on Monday morning. 

It happened at around 9:30 a.m. in Manahawkin, which is located about 36 miles north of Atlantic City.   

Agents were attempting to stop a targeted vehicle, looking for a man from Peru who was in the country illegally, ICE said. 

“The driver then weaponized his vehicle and struck an officer, resulting in the officer discharging his weapon,” an ICE spokesperson said. 

The driver took off. It’s not clear if they were hit by the gunfire. 

“It’s absolutely terrifying. I mean, my kids go to school a mile away from here,” Lisa Bradley said. “Everybody was scared.” 

Images from the scene show the ICE agent on the ground after being struck. The extent of the agent’s injuries is not known, although he was hospitalized. 

ICE said it is part of “a pattern of vehicle attacks against our officers.” 

The FBI confirmed it was on the scene and investigating. 

Video shows a substantial law enforcement response, and the crime scene taped off. At least three yellow evidence markers that frequently denote spent shell casings could be seen. 

Stafford Township Police said they were not directly involved in the incident, but later responded to help direct traffic in the area and secure the crime scene. 

Stafford Township Police said there’s “no reason to believe there is any concern for the public’s safety.”