A Department of Homeland Security officer fired shots at a man in Los Angeles County on Wednesday morning, and the man was subsequently taken into custody, according to the department.
Details of the Incident
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department reported the incident occurred around 7:25 a.m. on the 2400 block of 126th Street in Willowbrook, an unincorporated community north of Compton. While LASD deputies were not directly involved, they responded to secure the scene’s perimeter.
Federal law enforcement officers were conducting a targeted operation in Compton at 7:05 a.m. when, according to a DHS spokesperson, the suspect, identified as William Eduardo Moran Carballo, a national of El Salvador, made a “dangerous attempt to evade arrest.” The DHS claims Carballo then “weaponized his vehicle and rammed law enforcement,” prompting an agent to open fire.
Carballo was not struck by the gunfire but attempted to flee on foot. He was later apprehended and is now in custody.
At least one Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer sustained injuries during the incident, though the nature and extent of those injuries remain unclear.
Footage from the scene depicts a silver BMW with a black hood exhibiting significant front-end damage, including a broken windshield and deployed airbags. A substantial law enforcement presence, including CBP officers, was observed at the location.
Political Response
The office of Governor Gavin Newsom responded to DHS claims suggesting that “sanctuary politicians, including Governor Newsom,” have encouraged individuals targeted by immigration operations to resist arrest. The Governor’s office stated, “The governor has never ‘encouraged’ defiance of lawful orders.”
The statement continued, asserting that California law permits federal agents to carry out federal enforcement actions using their own resources, and that the state has prioritized public safety and the protection of individual rights.
No further details were immediately released.
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the DHS operation?
According to a DHS spokesperson, federal law enforcement officers were conducting a targeted operation in Compton when the incident began.
Was anyone injured in the incident?
At least one CBP officer was injured, though the extent and circumstances of the injury were not immediately made clear.
What is the current status of William Eduardo Moran Carballo?
Carballo was apprehended and is currently in custody.
What questions remain unanswered about the events that unfolded in Willowbrook?
