The recent shooting of Oscar Belgal by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in New York City’s Marble Hill has ignited a wave of outrage and protest. The incident involved Belgal, 28, being shot in the neck while his 5-year-old child was present in the vehicle, though the child was uninjured.
The New York Police Department (NYPD) released body-camera footage showcasing the aftermath of the shooting. The footage depicts two officers arriving at the scene, with a bystander discussing the involvement of ICE agents. The officers swiftly transported Belgal to a hospital, bypassing the wait for an ambulance.
Public Advocate Jumaane Williams criticized the operation, stating, “There was nothing that was happening that would make people have to disguise themselves as construction workers, surround a man’s car with his 5-year-old son in it, coming from school at 4 o’clock in the afternoon, and shoot him in the neck in the car.”
Marcos Charles of ICE defended the actions taken, explaining that Belgal failed to comply with lawful orders and subsequently accelerated his vehicle into government ICE vehicles and toward officers. This pursuit was part of a targeted enforcement operation, as Belgal was residing in the U.S. illegally. He was associated with the Trinitarios gang and had a history of criminal activities.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s attempts to negotiate Belgal’s release with President Trump and DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin were unsuccessful. Mullin stated, “President Trump actually got involved and said that we would release him to New York’s Finest. If NYPD wants to take the charges and pursue the charges, we’ll be happy to release him into the custody of NYPD.” CBS News New York is awaiting further comments from City Hall regarding this statement.
Rep. Adriano Espaillat shared insights from his communication with Belgal’s family, describing their emotional state as shaken and nervous. The 5-year-old boy, however, remains in good spirits.
Belgal’s legal troubles extend to a grand larceny conviction and multiple previous arrests for various offenses. In August 2025, he was arrested for drug-related charges, with evidence suggesting he was out on supervised release.
The shooting prompted immediate protests, accentuated by calls for the abolition of ICE. “New York City will not stand by while ICE agents shoot New Yorkers,” declared Mayor Mamdani. Five individuals were detained during the protests. Belgal is now in a detention facility outside New York state.