NYC Marble Hill ICE Shooting Sparks Fury and Fear Among Residents 2026

Residents of New York City’s Marble Hill neighborhood are expressing fury and fear after a federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer shot their neighbor, Oscar Belgal, 28, during an arrest on Thursday night. The incident, which occurred near 225th St and Marble Hill Avenue, has left the community shaken and demanding answers.

What Happened in Marble Hill?

According to witness Orlando Perez, Belgal had parked his car when ICE agents approached. Perez, who witnessed the aftermath, said he saw Belgal being arrested after being shot in the neck, apparently with an assault-style rifle. "I thought I was going to get shot," Perez told reporters on Friday. The streets, now calm after protests broke out the night before, were noticeably quieter than normal despite golden early October sunshine under blue skies.

Perez noted that the agents targeting Belgal were not wearing uniforms, nor did he see identification badges or any gear showing they belonged to ICE. However, footage of the aftermath shows a man in a high-visibility construction-type vest, possibly with a badge on a lanyard, carrying an assault-style rifle. Bystanders can be heard on video asking each other: "Is it ICE or not?" The car Belgal had driven appeared to have bullet holes in it, according to Perez.

Community Reaction: Fury and Fear

The shooting has ignited outrage among Marble Hill residents, who describe a mix of anger and anxiety. Many are questioning why such force was used in their neighborhood. "Why do this?" one resident asked, echoing a sentiment shared by many. The presence of a child in the back of Belgal's car has further intensified emotions.

Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin said in a press conference in Washington DC on Friday morning that federal officers did not know there was a child in the target’s car. But Perez added that the child was visible and that the shooting could have been avoided. The community remains on edge, with some fearing for their safety and others demanding transparency from federal authorities.

Key Takeaways from the Marble Hill ICE Shooting

• Witness accounts describe plainclothes ICE agents and a shooting that left a neighbor injured.
• Community outrage is growing over the use of force and lack of clear identification.
• Federal response claims officers were unaware of a child in the car, but witnesses dispute this.
• Protests erupted the night after the shooting, though streets are now calmer.
• Residents demand answers and accountability from ICE and Homeland Security.

Comparing Accounts: Witness vs. Official Statements

FAQ

The Marble Hill ICE shooting has left a community grappling with trauma and mistrust. As investigations continue, residents are calling for transparency and justice. Grand Goldman will continue to monitor this developing story.