An off-duty U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent, David Gonzalez, 32, was arrested after being shot by a 72-year-old man he allegedly attacked. The incident occurred outside the man’s home in Fresno, California. Police responded to the scene around 3:20 a.m. after receiving multiple 911 calls about a gunshot fired near East Dudley and North Broadway Street, according to a police news release.
Upon arrival, officers found Gonzalez with a gunshot wound to his midsection. Originally from Texas, Gonzalez was identified as a federal agent assigned to ICE. This incident follows heightened scrutiny of federal immigration officers amidst the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.
Off-Duty Agent Described as Intoxicated and Agitated
The investigation revealed that a woman found Gonzalez asleep on her front lawn and informed her 72-year-old father. He approached Gonzalez to ask him to leave. Upon awakening, Gonzalez appeared intoxicated and agitated before physically assaulting the elderly man, causing visible injuries.
The woman’s attempt to intervene resulted in Gonzalez knocking her to the ground. Fearing for their safety, the 72-year-old man used a firearm to shoot Gonzalez. The woman’s boyfriend, an off-duty police officer, arrived subsequently and handcuffed Gonzalez.
Gonzalez was taken to a hospital for treatment, remaining in police custody for felony assault charges. The police did not disclose the identities of the man and his daughter.
72-Year-Old Man Not Charged
Police stated the 72-year-old man will not face criminal charges. He was legally permitted to possess the firearm used. The investigation did not clarify why Gonzalez was at the location, though he was confirmed to be off-duty and alone.
Newsweek reached out to the Fresno Police Department, the Department of Homeland Security, and ICE for comments, receiving none immediately as the queries were made outside regular business hours.
The investigation is ongoing with the Fresno Police seeking additional witnesses and video evidence. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Fresno Police Department at 559-621-7000 or CrimeStoppers at 498-STOP.