Agent’s “Aggressive” Order Sparks New Lawsuit Over Shooting

A new video released by federal prosecutors shows a Border Patrol agent turning his car toward a civilian’s vehicle after teammates shouted “time to get aggressive. ” The footage contradicts earlier claims that the victim and a second man had intentionally collided with the agent’s truck. Instead, it suggests the agent deliberately swerved toward the victim’s car before a collision occurred. After the crash, an agent can be heard saying “we’ve been struck” while another steps out and points a weapon, yelling for the victim to stop moving. Five gunshots are heard off‑camera, but no clear evidence shows where the bullets entered the victim’s car. This supports the victim’s assertion that the agent fired from a position behind her. The victim, a 30‑year‑old teacher’s assistant, has already filed a lawsuit and plans to announce a new one after the video is released. Her lawyers argue that the agent lied about all five shots hitting the front windshield and that at least one bullet likely came from behind. They also claim that evidence will show the agent’s superiors praised him for his actions, hinting at possible political backing.The agent’s text messages reveal praise from senior Border Patrol officials and even a reference to President Trump, calling him “El Jefe. ” One message from Vermont praised the agent as a legend and offered beers at training. Meanwhile, a senior Border Patrol commander wrote to the agent offering an extended retirement in recognition of his service. The victim’s car interior was found covered in blood, including a water bottle in the cup holder. A judge recently allowed the release of this evidence after prosecutors feared it would harm the agent’s reputation, noting that the Trump administration had shown no concern for the victim’s image. The victim has become a vocal critic of the Trump administration’s deportation policies, speaking to Congress and calling for the removal of a “domestic terrorist” label that Homeland Security has refused to retract. She claims she was followed by the agent’s truck, honked her horn, and tried to warn others. She says the agent swerved toward her car, they collided, she fled, and then he opened fire. The new video may change the narrative of this incident, raising questions about agent conduct and possible political influence in Border Patrol operations.