Residents of the Marble Hill neighborhood in Manhattan voiced both fury and fear on Friday following an incident involving federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents.
The distress centers on the shooting of Orlando Perez, who had a child seated in the back of his vehicle at the time. According to reports, Perez was shot in the neck during the encounter.
Perez had parked his car at the intersection of 225th Street and Marble Hill Avenue on Thursday night. He witnessed ICE officers arresting Oscar Belgal, 28, who was reportedly wounded by what appears to be an assault-style rifle.
Local reaction has been sharp, with community members questioning the necessity of the force used. “Why do this?” was among the sentiments expressed by furious neighbors concerned for their safety and that of their families.
Fear is spreading fast through our neighborhood. Residents deserve answers and accountability for this incident.
It’s outrageous that children are exposed to this during routine enforcement actions. Why couldn’t they de-escalate instead?
I’ve lived in Marble Hill for years and never felt this unsafe. What exactly was the threat during this arrest?
My heart goes out to Orlando and his family. The community is rightfully scared and angry about the excessive force used here.
This is absolutely terrifying. A child was in the car? I can’t believe this level of violence is happening in our own backyard.