Newly obtained body camera footage directly contradicts federal claims that Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents fired in self-defense after an American citizen intentionally ran over an officer during a March 2025 traffic stop in Texas.
Video Evidence Disputes Official Account
The bodycam video from a South Padre Island police officer shows Ruben Ray Martinez’s blue Ford Fusion either stationary or moving at very low speed when ICE agents opened fire. The footage reveals that Martinez’s brake lights were illuminated when gunshots rang out. Internal ICE reports claimed Martinez accelerated forward and struck an agent, while the Department of Homeland Security stated agents fired defensive shots after Martinez intentionally ran over another agent. The video evidence tells a different story.
After three gunshots struck Martinez, the footage shows ICE agents pulling him from his vehicle and throwing him face-down on the ground before handcuffing him. Medical assistance was not provided until after Martinez was restrained. A Texas grand jury declined to return criminal indictments last month, prompting acting ICE Director Todd Lyons to defend the agents’ actions as justified.
Witness Account Raises Questions
Martinez’s passenger told Texas Rangers investigators that Martinez appeared panicked when ordered to stop, possibly concerned about an open alcohol container in the vehicle. The passenger stated Martinez barely pushed the gas pedal and the car was moving very slowly. He described an officer getting slightly on the hood after possibly getting his feet caught, but insisted Martinez would never intentionally endanger law enforcement. The passenger characterized Martinez’s reaction as panic rather than aggression.
Federal Accountability Under Scrutiny
Martinez’s mother, who voted for President Trump in 2024, stated she does not blame the president for her son’s death but called for reforms within ICE regarding patterns of violence and impunity. The Texas Department of Public Safety released dozens of investigation records on Friday, including witness interviews and bodycam analysis. The case highlights ongoing concerns about federal law enforcement transparency and accountability when force is used against American citizens during routine operations.