Portland Police Chief Confirms Venezuelan Gang Ties in CBP Shooting, Emotions Run High
PORTLAND, Ore. — Portland Police Chief Bob Day became visibly emotional Friday as he confirmed that two individuals shot during a recent immigration enforcement operation have suspected ties to the violent Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA). The chief’s remarks came amid heightened tensions surrounding federal immigration enforcement and community relations in the city.
During a press conference, Chief Day identified the two individuals as Luis David Nico Moncada and Yorlenys Betzabeth Zambrano-Contreras, both Venezuelan nationals who were shot by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agent after an incident on January 8, 2026. According to the Department of Homeland Security, Moncada allegedly “weaponized his vehicle” in an attempt to run over agents, prompting the agent to fire in self-defense.
“They do have some nexus to involvement with TdA. We can confirm that,” Day said, pausing to wipe away tears. He expressed deep regret over the necessity of revealing the suspected gang ties, citing concerns about the historic injustice of victim blaming by law enforcement, including within his own department.
“I want to speak for just a moment, specifically to my Latino community,” Day said. “It saddens me that we even have to qualify these remarks because I understand or at least have attempted to understand your voices, your concern, your fear, your anger.” Removing his glasses, he added, “This information, in no way, is meant to disparage or to condone or support or agree with any of the actions that occurred yesterday.”
The incident has drawn significant attention amid a wave of attacks targeting immigration enforcement agents nationwide. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection reported that the agent involved acted to protect himself and others when Moncada allegedly used his vehicle as a weapon.
Chief Day emphasized that his disclosure was motivated by a commitment to transparency and the rule of law, not to justify the shooting, which remains under investigation. “It is important that we stay committed to the rule of law, that we stay committed to the facts,” he said.
The suspected gang, Tren de Aragua, is classified by federal authorities as a foreign criminal organization with a history of violent activity, including drug trafficking and extortion. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has identified TdA as a growing threat in several U.S. cities, complicating immigration enforcement efforts.
Community leaders and advocacy groups have expressed mixed reactions to the revelations. Some urge caution to avoid stigmatizing immigrant communities, while others stress the importance of acknowledging criminal elements that may exploit migration pathways.
As the investigation continues, the incident has reignited debates over immigration enforcement policies and the challenges faced by federal agents operating in complex urban environments. The Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency and CBP remain under scrutiny as they navigate enforcement actions amid rising violence and political tensions.
Chief Day’s emotional admission marks a rare moment of candor from local law enforcement about the complexities surrounding immigration-related violence and gang involvement. It also underscores the difficult balance officials must strike between protecting communities and upholding the law in an increasingly polarized climate.
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