2 wounded in shooting with federal agents in Oregon, authorities say

PORTLAND, Ore. (KPTV/Gray News) - Two people were shot by federal agents in Portland on Thursday, according to police and the Department of Homeland Security confirmed.

Authorities in Portland said police officers responded to the 10200 block of Southeast Main Street for a reported shooting at about 2:15 p.m.

Officers confirmed that federal agents were involved in the shooting.

Officials did not give an immediate update on the condition of those who were shot.

“We are still in the early stages of this incident,” Portland Police Chief Bob Day said. “We understand the heightened emotion and tension many are feeling in the wake of the shooting in Minneapolis, but I am asking the community to remain calm as we work to learn more.”

The FBI office in Portland confirmed that the two agents involved in the shooting were working for Border Patrol on X/Twitter. But a short time later, they deleted that statement.

Thursday night, the Department of Homeland Security issued a statement confirming the two agents were indeed Border Patrol agents.

DHS also said the targets of the federal mission were Venezuelan and affiliated with the Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua.

“When agents identified themselves to the vehicle occupants, the driver weaponized his vehicle and attempted to run over the law enforcement agents,” the department said. “Fearing for his life and safety, an agent fired a defensive shot.”

According to the Portland Police Bureau, they are not involved in helping with any immigration enforcement, but they were assisting at the scene after the shooting.

East Burnside Street was closed westbound between Northeast 145^th Avenue and Northeast 148^th Avenue for the on-scene investigation.

Portland Mayor Keith Wilson called the situation “deeply troubling” in a written statement following the shooting.

Oregon Attorney General Dan Rayfield announced he’s launching an investigation into the shooting.

“We have been clear about our concerns with excessive use of force by federal agents in Portland and nationally. We have also been clear about our intent to investigate circumstances involving federal agents to ensure they are accountable to acting within the scope of their official duties. Today’s incident only heightens the need for transparency and accountability. Our office will take every step necessary to ensure that the rights and security of Oregonians are protected,” Rayfield said in a statement.

Hundreds gathered in protest on Thursday night outside the ICE building in Portland’s South Waterfront neighborhood, several hours after the two alleged gang members were shot by the federal agents.