Bodycam Footage Contradicts Border Patrol Account of Chicago Shooting

Evidence raises questions about agency's use-of-force practices and accountability

Feb. 12, 2026 at 2:15am

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Newly released evidence, including bodycam footage and internal communications, contradicts the Border Patrol's account of a shooting incident involving Chicago resident Marimar Martinez. The charges against Martinez were ultimately dropped after her lawyer presented evidence that disputed the agents' claims. Experts are now scrutinizing the agents' tactics and training, as the footage suggests potential violations of the agency's own use-of-force protocols.

Why it matters

This case adds to a growing number of incidents raising concerns about Border Patrol's accountability and use of force practices, particularly in non-border areas. The discrepancies between the official narrative and the evidence underscore the need for greater transparency and independent oversight within the agency.

The details

The incident occurred in October when Martinez was shot multiple times by Border Patrol agent Charles Exum during a confrontation in Brighton Park. Agents initially claimed Martinez aggressively pursued them and rammed her vehicle into an agent's car, but these claims were disputed by Martinez and her legal team. Bodycam footage and text messages from Exum appear to contradict the agents' account, suggesting Martinez was attempting to drive away rather than towards the agents. Experts have raised concerns about potential violations of the agency's use-of-force protocols, including firing into a moving vehicle.

  • The incident occurred in October 2025.
  • Charges against Martinez were dropped after her lawyer presented bodycam footage in late 2025.
  • The evidence, including bodycam footage and internal communications, was made public in February 2026.

The players

Marimar Martinez

A Chicago resident who was shot multiple times by a Border Patrol agent during a confrontation in October 2025.

Charles Exum

The Border Patrol agent who shot Marimar Martinez, whose text messages and actions are now under scrutiny.

Adam J. Perkins

A Border Patrol agent whose bodycam footage is part of the evidence released in the case.

Lorenzo Cordero

A Border Patrol agent whose bodycam footage is part of the evidence released in the case.

Dr. Marc Brown

A former training center instructor who has commented on the potential violations of Border Patrol's use-of-force protocols.

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What they’re saying

“Firing into a moving vehicle is generally discouraged, as it risks incapacitating the driver and creating an even more dangerous situation.”

— Dr. Marc Brown, Former training center instructor

What’s next

The shooting is under investigation by the National Use of Force Review Board, an independent body within the Department of Homeland Security. Marimar Martinez is also pursuing a federal civil lawsuit against the government and agent Exum, seeking monetary damages.

The takeaway

This case highlights the urgent need for greater transparency and accountability within the Border Patrol, as the discrepancies between the official narrative and the evidence suggest a concerning pattern of aggressive tactics and a lack of adherence to established use-of-force protocols.