UPDATE: Two NYPD officers were injured during a chaotic confrontation with federal immigration agents in Washington Heights on Wednesday morning, just confirmed by police. The clash unfolded as federal agents executed multiple arrests in the area, prompting residents to dial 911 reporting alarming activity involving armed men pulling people from cars.
The incident ignited around 10:00 AM near 164th St. and Broadway, when NYPD officers, responding to reports, spotted a group chasing an individual. They intervened, only to discover that the pursuers were federal agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Although the agents were wearing vests identifying them as ICE agents, these were concealed under their sweatshirts, causing initial confusion among the responding officers.
Authorities have not disclosed the extent of injuries sustained by the NYPD officers, but both were treated at the scene by EMS. A spokesperson for ICE has yet to comment on the situation.
Local City Councilmember Shaun Abreu, representing Washington Heights, expressed deep concern over the incident. He shared a video on social media that purportedly shows a separate immigration enforcement action occurring simultaneously at 157th St. and Broadway. The footage captured federal agents forcibly removing a man from a vehicle. Peter Green, who recorded the video, revealed to Gothamist that NYPD officers arrived on the scene only after the ICE agents had departed with the individual.
Abreu condemned the actions of federal officials, labeling them as “deeply disturbing.” He stated, “I condemn this despicable pattern of intimidation,” further criticizing ICE for carrying out actions he associates with former President Trump’s agenda to detain individuals without due process.
This incident marks the latest in a series of contentious immigration enforcement actions that have sparked outrage among local residents and officials, raising significant concerns about the presence of federal agents in urban communities.
As this story develops, further details are expected to emerge, and residents are urged to remain vigilant. Watch for updates as authorities continue to respond to this urgent situation.
