An off-duty Customs and Border Protection officer is recovering after being shot in an attempted robbery last Saturday night, as confirmed by the Department of Homeland Security. Gothamist reported that the 42-year-old agent was with a friend at Riverside Park in Manhattan when approached by two assailants on a moped. After an exchange of gunfire, the officer, who was hit in the face, and forearm, was taken to NYC Health + Hospitals/Harlem in stable condition.
According to a statement obtained by CBS News, NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch revealed that a suspect, who walked into BronxCare Hospital with gunshot wounds to the groin, and leg around 12:18 a.m. is believed to be connected to the shooting. The 21-year-old man, identified as Miguel Mora, was taken into NYPD custody and is expected to face charges, having a history of violent crimes and an active deportation order.
Mayor Eric Adams praised the officer's bravery during a press update and acknowledged the family's gratitude for the prompt response and support. "He did exactly what we ask of all of our officers under the circumstances," said Customs and Border Protection Director Frank Russo, as reported by Gothamist.
Meanwhile, President Trump criticized the immigration system, claiming that the suspect's presence on the streets was due to a flawed process. “This violent criminal never should've been on our streets. This is exactly why we fight every day to secure this nation,” CBP Commissioner Rodney Scott stated on social media, according to a report by CBS News.
The NYPD continues their investigation and calls for anyone with information on the shooting to contact the Crime Stoppers hotline.
