Attorney Accuses ICE of Fabricating Evidence in Chicago Shooting

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The attorney for Marimar Martinez, who was shot multiple times by a US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent in Chicago in October 2025, argued that evidence released through discovery shows the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has lied about the circumstances of the shooting and Martinez's background. The attorney claims a diagram of the incident drawn by an ICE agent depicted vehicles that did not exist, and that DHS falsely alleged Martinez had a history of 'doxxing federal agents' to label her a 'domestic terrorist', despite a lack of evidence. The attorney also unveiled documents suggesting ICE and DHS have 'encouraged, celebrated and rewarded' protester killings.

Why it matters

This case raises serious concerns about the transparency and accountability of ICE and DHS, as well as the potential use of excessive force and fabrication of evidence against civilians by federal law enforcement agencies. It also highlights ongoing tensions between immigrant communities and immigration enforcement in cities like Chicago.

The details

According to the attorney, Christopher Parente, a diagram of the altercation drawn by an ICE agent was meant to show how Martinez allegedly rammed into an ICE vehicle, but the diagram depicted vehicles that 'don't exist.' Parente also said DHS officials had alleged that Martinez had a past history of 'doxxing federal agents' which contributed to labeling her a 'domestic terrorist,' but officials have brought no evidence to support this claim, and Martinez has no apparent criminal background. Through discovery, Parente unveiled documents that suggest ICE and DHS have 'encouraged, celebrated and rewarded' protester killings, including an email from a Chicago ICE leader congratulating the shooting officer, Charles Exum, and text chains between ICE agents calling Exum 'a legend' and stating he 'fired 5 rounds and she had 7 holes.'

• On October 4, 2025, ICE agents drove through a Chicago neighborhood, and Martinez followed them while honking her horn to alert residents.
• Authorities stated Martinez and another driver rammed into a vehicle operated by Exum, who subsequently shot Martinez five times.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Justice Department initially brought a felony charge against Martinez, but quickly dropped the case after videos emerged of an ICE agent driving into Martinez's car. Parente seeks to pursue a complaint under the Federal Tort Claims Act, and if DHS denies the claim or does not act on it within six months, Martinez can file a federal lawsuit.