A high-speed car chase involving federal immigration enforcement officers has triggered a serious multi-vehicle collision in Newark, New Jersey, resulting in injuries and prompting sharp criticism from the city's mayor.
Mayor Ras Baraka Condemns Federal Agents' Actions
Mayor Ras Baraka stated on social media that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents attempted to pull over a van in New Jersey's largest city on Wednesday. When the driver fled, the ICE agents initiated a pursuit, which culminated in an accident involving several vehicles. One of the vehicles struck in the crash was carrying three children, amplifying concerns about public safety.
Injuries and Immediate Aftermath
The driver of the van sustained injuries and was transported to a hospital for treatment. The precise extent of the driver's injuries remains unclear at this time, and the specific reasons for the ICE pursuit have not been disclosed by federal authorities. Newark police confirmed they were not involved in the initial ICE investigation and only responded to the scene of the crash to provide assistance.
Spokespersons for Mayor Baraka, the Newark Police Department, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and ICE did not immediately respond to emails seeking further comment on the incident.
Legal and Safety Violations Alleged
In his statement on X, the Democratic mayor strongly criticised ICE's actions, labelling them as reckless and dangerously irresponsible. Baraka emphasised that New Jersey state law explicitly prohibits law enforcement officials from engaging in vehicle chases unless a suspect poses an immediate and credible threat to public safety.
“Federal authorities should adhere to local laws regarding vehicle pursuits and exercise common sense,” Baraka asserted. “Based on the damage they are inflicting on our communities, ICE has no business engaging in chases at anytime, anywhere — but especially in densely populated areas, and on roads still being cleared from a significant snowstorm.”
Background on Mayor Baraka's Stance
This incident is not the first time Mayor Baraka has clashed with federal immigration authorities. Last May, he was arrested and charged with trespassing while protesting in front of Delany Hall, a newly opened federal immigration detention centre in Newark. Those charges were subsequently dismissed, but the event underscores his ongoing opposition to certain ICE operations within the city.
The multi-vehicle crash has reignited debates over the conduct of federal immigration enforcement in urban areas, highlighting tensions between local governance and federal agency protocols. The safety of residents, particularly in densely populated zones like Newark, remains a paramount concern following this disruptive and injurious event.
