Investigation Underway After Collision Involving ICE Vehicle in Woodland

WOODLAND, Calif. — A federal immigration vehicle struck a 37-year-old man while he was documenting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity on Tuesday morning. The incident, reported around 9:38 a.m., occurred at the intersection of Clover Street and College Street and was captured on multiple video recordings.

Details of the Incident

The injured man, identified as Antonio Moreida, experienced minor injuries and was evaluated on-site before being transported to a hospital for further assessment. According to Woodland police, the vehicle involved was a Chevrolet Tahoe driven by ICE agents conducting an operation in the vicinity. Following the accident, the driver promptly alerted Woodland police dispatch and has been cooperating with the ongoing investigation.

Video Evidence

Footage released by the advocacy group NorCal Resist offers multiple views of the incident. One video displays two unmarked SUVs passing each other, capturing the moment Moreida is knocked to the ground as one of the vehicles swerves and continues down the street. Another video sourced from a home security camera shows more details of the sequence leading to the collision, including Moreida walking in the street while holding a GoPro camera before being struck.

Eyewitness Accounts

Moreida was present to document ICE activities when the collision occurred. He described the incident, stating, “Definitely seemed to swerve into me rather than try to avoid me based off of where I was in the street.” Witness Steve Hanes recounted his observations of the event, noting that Moreida was photographing the vehicle when he was told to step away, moments before the collision occurred.

Moreida explained the importance of his GoPro, indicating that it served to both document ICE’s actions and to provide evidence should any issues arise. “Getting hit by a moving vehicle isn’t something you just brush off,” he said, detailing his injuries from the incident.

Authorities Provide Update on Investigation

Woodland police confirmed they are conducting an independent investigation into the collision, stating that they have been gathering evidence, taking statements, and reviewing both audio and video materials related to the event. The police noted that they do not have a role in the federal operation being conducted by ICE.

Police Chief Ryan Kinnan expressed concern about the incident, stating, “I’ve seen the video myself, and I find it very troubling. Our responsibility is to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to establish the facts.” The complete investigation will be submitted to the district attorney’s office for further review.

Potential Legal Implications

Defense attorney Mark Reichel suggested that the footage may indicate a case of assault with a deadly weapon against the federal agents involved. He elaborated on the possibility that, even if state charges are filed, the federal government could step in and assume control of the case, potentially complicating matters further.

Reichel also highlighted challenges in identifying the driver involved, noting that if the federal government does not disclose the driver’s identity, it would hinder any prosecution efforts.

Community Response and Official Statements

In response to the incident, local politicians have voiced their concerns. U.S. House Representative Mike Thompson emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “ICE cannot continue to terrorize our communities.” Assemblywoman Cecilia Aguiar-Curry echoed similar sentiments, insisting that the community deserves answers regarding the event.

Ongoing Developments

As of now, the Yolo County District Attorney’s Office has refrained from commenting due to the ongoing investigation. KCRA 3 has also reached out to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for comments, awaiting an official response.