ICE Encounter Leaves US Citizen with Broken Arm in Long Beach

Ricardo Gonzalez, a 40-year-old U.S. citizen and former Long Beach city employee, suffered a broken arm and other severe injuries on Saturday, October 17, 2026, during an encounter with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in North Long Beach, California[1][2][6]. The incident occurred around noon near Elm Avenue and 56th Street, an area also identified as Locust Avenue and Ellis Street[3][6].

This incident, involving a federal agency and a U.S. citizen, has prompted strong reactions from local officials and raised concerns about federal law enforcement tactics within communities[7][9]. The widespread condemnation from figures like Mayor Rex Richardson and Congressman Robert Garcia highlights the gravity of the situation for residents of Long Beach[7].

What the records show

ICE personnel requested emergency assistance from the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) on Saturday, citing vehicle vandalism and a need for medical aid[1][4]. When LBPD officers arrived, they found Gonzalez handcuffed and bleeding, being detained by ICE agents amidst what police described as a “large group disturbance”[4]. The LBPD stated its officers did not participate in immigration enforcement actions and made no arrests[1][6]. LBPD officers transported Gonzalez to a nearby fire station, where his handcuffs were removed by LBPD personnel[1]. Fire department paramedics then took him to a hospital for medical attention[1][6]. The LBPD also reported that ICE agents who followed officers to a secure parking lot were directed to leave the station[1]. They were later advised to contact the City of Long Beach Communications Center if they wished to file a vandalism report[1].

The timeline

On Saturday, October 17, 2026, the encounter began in North Long Beach. Conflicting accounts describe the initial moments: Gonzalez's daughter, Leslie Gonzalez, stated he was struck by an unmarked federal vehicle[2][4], while a neighbor identified as Joe reported an agent tackled Gonzalez and accused him of vandalism[3]. During the confrontation, Gonzalez was tased twice, pinned, and handcuffed[2][3]. Videos show him yelling, "Help me, my arm is broken," and "call a paramedic"[4]. Neighbors quickly intervened, blocking federal vehicles and preventing agents from leaving until LBPD arrived[3]. Gonzalez himself also called 911 due to the escalating situation[4]. On Sunday morning, October 18, Gonzalez was seen with his arm in a sling[2][5].

What changed and for whom

Ricardo Gonzalez sustained a broken arm and other injuries, which have resulted in hospital bills and potential legal expenses[2][5][7]. His daughter, Leslie Gonzalez, initiated a GoFundMe campaign to cover these costs, describing her father as one of the "hardest working men"[7][8]. The incident sparked community outcry, with residents actively engaging to prevent ICE agents from departing the scene[3]. Local officials, including Mayor Rex Richardson and Congressman Robert Garcia, publicly condemned the "brutal attack" and called for answers[7].

What officials have said publicly

Mayor Rex Richardson told CNN on Sunday that he was "outraged" by the incident[4]. He spoke with Gonzalez and his family, who confirmed Gonzalez is a U.S. citizen[4]. Congressman Robert Garcia, the representative for California's 42nd congressional district, condemned ICE in an X post on October 18, writing that "ICE agents brutally attacked" Gonzalez[7].

What we could not confirm

Details surrounding the initial moments of the encounter remain disputed, with reports varying on whether Gonzalez was struck by a vehicle or accused of vandalism[2][3][4]. While multiple sources identify Ricardo Gonzalez as a U.S. citizen, CNN reported it was working to verify his citizenship status[2][3][4][6][9].