STAFFORD TOWNSHIP, N.J. — An ICE agent was injured Monday morning after a suspect allegedly fled an attempted apprehension and struck the federal officer with a vehicle on Route 72 in Manahawkin, according to local authorities.
The incident occurred around 9:30 a.m. near Mermaid Drive when agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement attempted to take a suspect into custody. Authorities say the suspect instead drove away, striking an ICE agent during the encounter.
The injured agent reportedly discharged his firearm at the fleeing vehicle, which was believed to have been hit. The suspect nevertheless escaped the scene and remained at large as of Monday afternoon.
The extent of the agent’s injuries was not immediately released. Authorities also said it is unknown whether the suspect was injured.
Stafford Township Police responded after receiving reports of the incident but emphasized that the department was not involved in the federal enforcement operation. New Jersey is a “sanctuary state.” Citing New Jersey’s Immigrant Trust Directive, which was codified into state statute back in March, local police said they neither participated in nor assisted with ICE’s actions.
Police closed portions of Route 72 while investigators processed the scene and directed traffic around the affected area. Despite the dramatic circumstances, authorities sought to reassure residents.
“There is no reason to believe there is any concern for the public’s safety,” the Stafford Township Police Department said in a statement.
The investigation is being handled by the appropriate authorities, with Stafford Township Police assisting only with traffic control and scene security.
The incident underscores the dangers federal immigration officers can face while carrying out enforcement operations, particularly when suspects choose to resist arrest or flee.
🚨 NOW: A MASSIVE MANHUNT is underway after an ICE-involved SHOOTING in New Jersey — he tried ramming an agent, got shot at, and RAN
At least one of the bullets hit the back of the van
Find the scum and charge him with attempted murder!
The Democrats constantly instigate these… pic.twitter.com/tOseswLppM
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) June 15, 2026
