San Antonio, Texas, February 8, 2026
The Department of Homeland Security has confirmed that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers attempted to arrest Gonzalo Mejia Ortega during a home raid in San Antonio, Texas. The operation, which has raised constitutional concerns, involved officers pursuing Mejia Ortega into his residence after he fled following a vehicle stop. Inside, he evaded capture, and an individual allegedly assaulted an ICE officer, complicating the arrest. The incident has sparked calls for investigation and accountability from community members and officials.
San Antonio, Texas: DHS Confirms ICE Attempted Arrest in Controversial Home Raid
San Antonio, Texas – The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has confirmed that U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers attempted to arrest 34-year-old Gonzalo Mejia Ortega during a recent incident in San Antonio. The event, captured in a now-viral video, has raised significant concerns regarding the conduct of federal agents and the protection of constitutional rights.
Details of the Incident
On February 5, 2026, ICE officers conducted a targeted operation to arrest Mejia Ortega, who had previously been deported and had three prior arrests for domestic assault. According to DHS, officers attempted to perform a vehicle stop on Mejia Ortega, but he fled on foot into his residence. Officers pursued him into the home, where he evaded capture by exiting through a window. During the operation, an individual inside the residence allegedly assaulted an ICE officer. Officers attempted to arrest this individual for assault—a felony and federal crime—but were unable to complete the arrest due to interference from others present in the home. For their safety, officers left the residence without completing the arrest. ICE is consulting with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to pursue federal criminal charges. Anyone with information regarding Mejia Ortega’s whereabouts is urged to contact the ICE Tip Line at 1-866-347-2423.
Community Response and Legal Concerns
The incident has sparked widespread concern among residents and officials. U.S. Representative Joaquin Castro described the event as a “home invasion” and called for an investigation into the actions of the federal agents involved. The presence of armed individuals entering a private residence without a warrant has raised questions about the adherence to constitutional protections against unreasonable searches and seizures.
Background on ICE Enforcement Practices
This event is part of a broader pattern of increased ICE enforcement activities in the San Antonio area. In June 2025, data indicated a significant rise in noncriminal ICE arrests, with individuals without criminal charges or convictions making up 51% of all arrests in the region. This surge followed a national trend coinciding with the Trump administration’s decision to triple ICE’s arrest quota.
Call for Transparency and Accountability
Community members and advocacy groups are calling for a formal, independent investigation into the San Antonio ICE home raid to ensure transparency and accountability. They emphasize the importance of protecting constitutional rights and maintaining public trust in law enforcement agencies.
Conclusion
The San Antonio incident underscores the ongoing debate over the balance between immigration enforcement and the protection of individual rights. As investigations proceed, it is crucial to uphold constitutional safeguards and ensure that law enforcement actions are conducted within the bounds of the law.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened during the San Antonio home raid?
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that ICE officers attempted to arrest 34-year-old Gonzalo Mejia Ortega, who had previously been deported and had three prior arrests for domestic assault. Officers pursued him into his home, but he evaded capture by exiting through a window. During the operation, an individual inside the residence allegedly assaulted an ICE officer. Officers attempted to arrest this individual for assault—a felony and federal crime—but were unable to complete the arrest due to interference from others present in the home. For their safety, officers left the residence without completing the arrest. ICE is consulting with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to pursue federal criminal charges. Anyone with information regarding Mejia Ortega’s whereabouts is urged to contact the ICE Tip Line at 1-866-347-2423.
What has been the community’s response to the incident?
The incident has sparked widespread concern among residents and officials. U.S. Representative Joaquin Castro described the event as a “home invasion” and called for an investigation into the actions of the federal agents involved. The presence of armed individuals entering a private residence without a warrant has raised questions about the adherence to constitutional protections against unreasonable searches and seizures.
How have ICE enforcement practices changed in San Antonio?
This event is part of a broader pattern of increased ICE enforcement activities in the San Antonio area. In June 2025, data indicated a significant rise in noncriminal ICE arrests, with individuals without criminal charges or convictions making up 51% of all arrests in the region. This surge followed a national trend coinciding with the Trump administration’s decision to triple ICE’s arrest quota.
What actions are being taken in response to the raid?
Community members and advocacy groups are calling for a formal, independent investigation into the San Antonio ICE home raid to ensure transparency and accountability. They emphasize the importance of protecting constitutional rights and maintaining public trust in law enforcement agencies.
Key Features of the San Antonio ICE Home Raid Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | February 5, 2026 |
| Subject of Arrest | Gonzalo Mejia Ortega, 34 |
| Previous Deportation | Yes |
| Prior Arrests | Three for domestic assault |
| Location of Incident | San Antonio, Texas |
| Community Response | Calls for investigation and accountability |
| Legal Concerns | Potential violation of constitutional rights |
| Related Enforcement Trends | Increase in noncriminal ICE arrests in San Antonio |
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Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
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