UPDATE: A chaotic ICE raid in Glen Burnie, Maryland, this morning escalated dramatically, resulting in gunfire and injuries. Two illegal immigrants were hospitalized after allegedly attempting to ram their van into federal officers, sparking a dangerous confrontation.
The incident occurred around 8:00 AM on December 24, 2025, when ICE agents approached a white van driven by Tiago Alexandre Sousa-Martins, an illegal migrant from Portugal. Authorities report that Sousa-Martins refused orders to turn off the engine and instead attempted to flee, ramming his vehicle into multiple ICE cars.
According to the Department of Homeland Security, Sousa-Martins “weaponized his vehicle,” driving it directly at officers. In response, ICE agents fired shots, striking Sousa-Martins before he crashed into a tree, resulting in injuries to his passenger, Solomon Antonio Serrano-Esquivel, an illegal immigrant from El Salvador. Both men were transported to a local hospital and are currently in stable condition.
No ICE officers were injured during the incident, but local residents expressed alarm over the gunfire, particularly given the festive season. Anne Arundel County Council member Allison Pickard voiced her concerns, stating, “It’s concerning that there was open gunfire in my community involving ICE agents.”
Witnesses reported the chase began at a nearby Walmart, with the driver attempting to evade capture by maneuvering between houses before crashing. Local resident James Hicks commented, “The man shouldn’t have tried to run them over,” reflecting the tense atmosphere in the neighborhood.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore acknowledged the shooting on social media, stating, “As information surrounding the incident continues to emerge, we will remain in touch with local officials and are standing by to provide support for the community.”
This incident marks a troubling moment in the ongoing complexities surrounding immigration enforcement in the United States. Recent data indicates there have been at least nine ICE-related shootings since President Donald Trump took office, raising questions about the protocols and safety of such operations.
As investigations continue, community members are left grappling with the implications of this violent encounter, particularly during a time typically associated with family gatherings and celebrations. The situation remains developing, with officials expected to provide further updates in the coming hours.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story unfolds.
