Trump Says Illegal Immigrant Must Be Thrown Out
An off‑duty Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer was shot in the face and arm late Saturday night in Riverside Park beneath the George Washington Bridge. The officer was sitting with a woman when two men on a scooter approached. One of them, armed, attempted a robbery. A gunfight ensued after the officer drew his weapon, and both men fled on the scooter. The officer was seriously injured but is now stable in hospital.
Suspect Arrested with Lengthy History
The main suspect, identified as Miguel Francisco Mora, a 21‑year‑old Dominican national, surrendered himself at a Bronx hospital shortly after the incident. Mora has a criminal past, including multiple arrests in New York for assault, robbery, and violating protection orders, along with an outstanding warrant in Massachusetts.
US authorities confirm Mora entered the US illegally through Arizona in April 2023. Despite being apprehended, he was not deported at that time and was released into the country.
Trump Demands Stricter Action
President Donald Trump called the accused an “illegal alien monster” on Truth Social. He accused the Biden administration of allowing Mora into the country and demanded he be “thrown out” immediately. Trump praised the officer’s actions, saying the officer displayed “enormous skill and courage.”
Immigration Debate Reignited
This shooting has intensified the ongoing debate in the US over immigration policy. Critics of current border rules argue that allowing individuals like Mora to stay after detainment poses dangers. Supporters of stronger enforcement emphasize the need to deport those with criminal records before they commit further crimes.
Law Enforcement Response
New York City officials emphasize this incident appears to be an attempted robbery rather than an attack on the officer for his job. The Police Commissioner stated the officer was not in uniform and was likely targeted due to his appearance. Both the officer and suspect were wounded; Mora faces charges including attempted murder, robbery, and firearms offences. Investigators are still searching for the second suspect.
