Federal prosecutors have charged Marimar Martinez and Anthony Ian Santos Lewis with felony assault connected to an incident involving the Southwest U.S. Border Patrol. The incident occurred when Martinez’s vehicle collided with an agent’s car while they were being pursued by federal agents as part of a customs security operation. Following the crash, an agent fired multiple shots at Martinez as she drove toward them, resulting in injuries that required hospitalization.
Martinez and Lewis are accused of reckless driving and assaulting federal officers. Witnesses reported chaos in the area, with federal agents using tear gas and pepper balls against protesters afterward. Local residents expressed concern over the aggressive tactics used by law enforcement. Governor J.B. Pritzker confirmed the National Guard’s deployment to Illinois, emphasizing the need for clarity regarding the incident. Mayor Brandon Johnson has not yet made a statement but is expected to address the situation in a forthcoming press conference.
Source link