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Chicago Woman Shot by Border Patrol Prepares Federal Lawsuit
Lawyers seek tens of millions in damages, claim agents lied about incident
Published on Feb. 12, 2026
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Lawyers for Maramar Martinez, a Chicago woman shot by a Border Patrol agent, are taking the first steps to filing a federal lawsuit seeking tens of millions of dollars in damages. They allege that agents and Homeland Security lied about how the incident unfolded, claiming agents rammed Martinez's vehicle before the agent opened fire, striking her five times.
Why it matters
This case highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement and civilians, as well as questions around the use of force by Border Patrol agents. It also raises concerns about transparency and accountability when it comes to incidents involving federal agencies.
The details
Newly released body camera footage shows agents claiming they're boxed in and going to make contact before colliding with Martinez's vehicle. The agent then gets out and opens fire, striking Martinez five times. Charges were initially filed against Martinez but later dropped. Martinez's lawyers filed a federal Torts Claim Act targeting the agent who fired the gun, with the goal of heading to trial before the end of the year.
- The incident occurred on October 4.
- Martinez's lawyers held a news conference on Wednesday to announce the first steps in filing the federal lawsuit.
The players
Maramar Martinez
A Chicago woman who was shot five times by a Border Patrol agent.
Homeland Security
The federal agency that oversees Border Patrol.
Border Patrol agent
The agent who opened fire on Martinez's vehicle.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
What’s next
If the federal Torts Claim is denied or not acted upon within six months, a federal lawsuit can be filed.
The takeaway
This case highlights ongoing tensions between law enforcement and civilians, as well as questions around the use of force by Border Patrol agents. It also raises concerns about transparency and accountability when it comes to incidents involving federal agencies.
