Dashcam video shows what led up to ICE shooting after traffic stop in Stanislaus Co.

PATTERSON, Calif. (KGO) — U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents shot and wounded a suspected gang member in Patterson who is wanted in El Salvador for questioning in connection with a murder, federal officials said Tuesday.

ICE officers were attempting to arrest the suspect when he tried to run over one of the agents, the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement. DHS said the officers opened fire to protect themselves.

ORIGINAL STORY: ICE involved in shooting in Stanislaus County, officials confirm

The suspect was wounded and taken to a hospital, officials said.

“I was shocked when I first heard this,” resident Steven Loya said. “No, not in Patterson.”

The quiet Central Valley town of 25,000 people was rocked after the shooting at its central intersection by Interstate 5.

ICE officers say they were conducting a targeted vehicle stop to make an arrest.

Dashcam video obtained by KCRA in Sacramento shows a car, said to have been driven by the suspect, abruptly backing up and then speeding forward.

That’s when officers say they opened fire.

SKY7 shows bullet holes in the smaller black SUV parked here in Stanislaus County.

“Deputies from the sheriff’s office immediately responded to the scene and assisted in securing the area by blocking the roadways,” Sheriff Jeff Dirkse said. “Fire and paramedic personnel also responded to provide medical assistance.”

The injured man was transported to a nearby hospital following the shooting.

Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons says the suspect is a member of the 18th Street Gang in El Salvador, that is where he is allegedly wanted for questioning for a murder.

FBI Sacramento has taken over as the primary agency for this investigation.

“We are conducting a thorough and methodical investigation to understand what transpired prior to today’s shooting,” Special Agent Eugene Wu said.

Community members from across the Central Valley came to the scene to get their look at what is now a national story.

“They’re here for a reason and I support them,” Loya said. “Keep up the good work.”

Joni Dickson Garcia is a rapid responder from Tracy. She came to make sure the smaller town had the support they needed, while making sure there is a thorough investigation into what happened.

After three recent shootings involving federal agents in Minnesota, she is unhappy with seeing lethal force used in a similar manner.

“You know the risk, assume the risk,” Dickson Garcia said. “Stop being a scared little baby and shoot every time you’re a little bit scared.”

The Stanislaus County Sheriff’s Office says the intersection at Sperry Avenue and Rogers Road has been closed since 6:30 a.m. Tuesday and will remain closed as the investigation continues.