Border Patrol Agent Indicted for Shooting Unarmed Teen in Calexico

Marcos Javier Andrade faces federal charges and civil lawsuit over 2022 incident.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:04am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

An extreme close-up photograph of a bullet casing or other physical evidence from a crime scene, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash against a pitch-black background, conceptually illustrating the investigation into a law enforcement shooting incident.A federal indictment and civil lawsuit allege a pattern of excessive force by a U.S. Border Patrol agent, raising concerns about accountability for law enforcement.San Diego Today

A U.S. Border Patrol agent, Marcos Javier Andrade, has been indicted on federal criminal charges for allegedly shooting an unarmed 17-year-old driver during a traffic stop in Calexico, California in 2022. Andrade has also been placed on administrative leave and is facing a civil lawsuit filed by the teen, who continues to suffer physical and psychological injuries from the shooting.

Why it matters

The indictment and civil lawsuit raise serious questions about the use of force by Border Patrol agents and the accountability of federal law enforcement officers, especially in cases involving alleged civil rights violations against members of the public.

The details

According to the indictment, on July 11, 2022, Andrade attempted to stop a minivan he suspected of smuggling undocumented immigrants on a highway in Calexico. The van was being driven by a 17-year-old who was unarmed and not engaged in any smuggling activity. Andrade allegedly pulled up next to the van, exited his vehicle, and immediately fired eight shots at the driver, striking him in the neck, hip, shoulder, and hand. The indictment also alleges that Andrade had previously been disciplined for shooting at civilians in 2012 and 2017, and that he refused to answer basic safety questions after the Calexico shooting.

  • On July 11, 2022, the alleged shooting incident occurred in Calexico, California.
  • In July 2024, a civil lawsuit was filed against Andrade on behalf of the teen driver, Anthony Flores.
  • On April 6, 2026, Andrade was indicted on federal criminal charges and placed on administrative leave by Border Patrol officials.
  • On April 7, 2026, Andrade made his initial appearance in U.S. District Court in San Diego, where he pleaded not guilty to the charges.

The players

Marcos Javier Andrade

A U.S. Border Patrol agent who was indicted on federal criminal charges for allegedly shooting an unarmed 17-year-old driver during a traffic stop in Calexico, California in 2022.

Anthony Flores

The 17-year-old driver who was shot by Andrade and is now suing him in a civil lawsuit, alleging he continues to suffer physical and psychological injuries from the incident.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We have serious concerns about whether the evidence supports the elements required to prove these charges, particularly given what was known at the time of the incident nearly four years ago.”

— Miguel Peñalosa, Defense attorney for Marcos Javier Andrade

“I think it's fair to say that he will never fully recover.”

— Marcus Bourassa, Attorney for Anthony Flores

“The decision of prosecutors to actually pursue justice is very exciting for us. It's very rare that they stand up for members of the public against law enforcement. It's especially rare against the Department of Homeland Security, and so we're very encouraged that they're taking it seriously.”

— Marcus Bourassa, Attorney for Anthony Flores

What’s next

Andrade's next hearing in the criminal case is set for May, at which time a district judge is expected to set a trial date and other key deadlines. The civil lawsuit filed by Flores is still pending, with the judge currently weighing whether to allow the case to move forward or dismiss it again.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges in holding federal law enforcement officers accountable for alleged civil rights violations, even in the face of serious allegations and evidence. The indictment and civil lawsuit underscore the need for greater transparency and accountability within agencies like the U.S. Border Patrol.