Newark Officials Raise Safety Concerns After ICE Pursuit Ends in Three-Vehicle Crash Involving Minors
City officials said a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement car pursuit resulted in a major multi-vehicle incident Wednesday morning in Newark, sending three children to the hospital.
New Jersey’s largest city’s Clinton Avenue and 10th Street crossroads was the scene. ICE agents tried to stop a van, but the driver didn’t stop, starting a city chase. The pursuit ended in a three-car accident.
One of the automobiles involved in the crash had three minors, two 15-year-olds and one 12-year-old, according to Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka. The children reported pain and were taken to University Hospital in Newark. Also hospitalized was the van’s male driver. His condition was not updated immediately.
A three-vehicle accident was reported to Newark police about 8:20 a.m., according to Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda. Officials say the fleeing driver hit two more vehicles, including a ride-share car with the youngsters.
City leaders underlined that Newark police did not initiate the traffic stop. Local officials said the city had no role in the federal enforcement activity that prompted the pursuit.
Mayor Baraka attacked the operation, saying aggressive vehicle pursuits in densely populated metropolitan areas endanger public safety. Such actions can threaten innocent citizens, especially in regions recuperating from a major winter, he said.
Federal officials should observe municipal rules and be cautious when enforcing city streets, the mayor said. He claimed that high-speed chases, especially in busy places, can endanger bystanders.
After the crash, DHS and ICE spokespeople did not reply to calls for comment. No accident-related charges were made against the driver as of Wednesday.
The incident coincides with national discussions concerning enforcement-related automobile pursuits. Other ICE-related crashes in different states have raised concerns in recent weeks. Newark officials said Wednesday’s events demonstrate the necessity for rigorous cooperation and safety standards when federal agencies operate locally.
Mayor Baraka, who was arrested by ICE last year for trespassing but ultimately acquitted, criticized reckless enforcement. Federal agencies working in cities must emphasize community safety, he said.
City authorities have not disclosed the driver’s immigration status or the attempted stop. Officials stated they are still taking care of the injured and investigating the collision.
As new information becomes available, the situation will be reviewed.
Sources
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)
U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
City of Newark Official Statements
