U.S. Border Patrol, ICE Targeted in Pair of Texas Ambush Attempts
A man armed with an assault rifle and wearing a tactical vest fired dozens of rounds at federal agents leaving a U.S. Border Patrol facility in McAllen, Texas, before being shot and killed by law enforcement.
Three people were injured in the shooting: a border patrol officer, a border patrol employee, and a member of the McAllen police department. All were taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Law enforcement shot and killed the shooter, identified as Ryan Louis Mosqueda. Law enforcement found other weapons, ammunition, and backpacks inside Mosqueda’s car, as well as two letters spray painted on the side of the vehicle.
DHS says the attack comes amid rising threats against federal law enforcement, particularly over the issue of immigration enforcement.
“Yesterday’s heinous and unprovoked attack in McAllen could have been a bloodbath if not for the fearless actions of Border Patrol and McAllen law enforcement," said DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin. "This vile assault on our officers is a disgusting escalation fueled by toxic rhetoric vilifying those who protect our borders.”
Officials say Mosqueda had no known criminal record and lived in Michigan.
Before the shooting, Mosqueda’s father was stopped by police in Weslaco, Texas, for a traffic violation. The father reportedly told police that he was looking for his son who had psychological issues and was carrying weapons in his car.
Attempted Ambush at ICE Facility Near Fort Worth
The incident comes after another attempted ambush at an Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) facility in Alvarado, Texas.
Ten people are facing charges. According to court documents, the group shot off fireworks at the facility and spray-painted vehicles and a guard tower.
When an Alvarado police officer responded, one of the suspects opened fire, shooting the officer in the neck, while others fired 20 to 30 rounds at officers who stepped outside the facility.
Some of the suspects were armed while others were wearing body armor. Flyers were also found saying “FIGHT ICE TERROR WITH CLASS WAR!” and “FREE ALL POLITICAL PRISONERS.”