Video Casts Doubt on DHS Claims About Shooting of Chicago Teacher's Assistant

Footage shows federal agents may have exaggerated threat before opening fire on Marimar Martinez

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Newly released body camera footage and surveillance videos suggest the Department of Homeland Security exaggerated claims about the circumstances leading up to a federal agent shooting Chicago teacher's assistant Marimar Martinez five times last October. The videos show the agents' vehicle was not "boxed in" by 10 cars as DHS had claimed, and there is no evidence the agents' vehicle was "rammed" before the shooting. Instead, the footage indicates an agent steered toward Martinez's car and then rapidly opened fire, despite her vehicle not appearing to pose an immediate threat.

Why it matters

This case raises concerns about transparency and accountability in law enforcement, particularly around the use of force by federal agents. The apparent discrepancies between the DHS's initial claims and the video evidence could undermine public trust and highlight the need for rigorous investigation of such incidents, especially when they involve the labeling of civilians as "domestic terrorists."

The details

The body camera footage and surveillance videos show that in the minute before the shooting, federal agents were being followed by two vehicles, not 10 as DHS had claimed. The agents stated they were "boxed in," but at no point was their vehicle blocked from the front. The videos do not show Martinez's vehicle ramming the agents' SUV; instead, an agent appears to steer toward Martinez's car and then rapidly fire at her, striking her five times. Martinez, a U.S. citizen and teacher's assistant, is now planning to sue DHS and the agent for allegedly making false claims about her following the shooting.

  • The incident occurred on October 15, 2025 in Chicago, Illinois.
  • Body camera footage and other evidence was released on February 11, 2026 after a federal judge granted a motion to permit the public release of the materials.

The players

Marimar Martinez

A 32-year-old Chicago teacher's assistant who was shot five times by a U.S. Border Patrol agent in October 2025. She is now planning to sue DHS and the agent for allegedly making false claims about her following the shooting.

Charles Exum

The U.S. Border Patrol agent who shot Marimar Martinez. He was placed on administrative leave following the incident, but the length of the leave or when it began is unclear.

Anthony Ruiz

The driver of a GMC SUV adorned with a Mexican flag who was present at the scene. He was later arrested at a gas station a half block away.

Cheronis & Parente LLC

The law firm representing Marimar Martinez.

Gallagher & Kosner Law LLC

The law firm representing Marimar Martinez.

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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)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.