Authorities Probe ICE Arrest That Left Mexican Immigrant with Skull Fractures

FBI and St. Paul police investigating incident that left man hospitalized with severe head injuries

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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Minnesota and federal authorities are investigating the alleged beating of a Mexican citizen by immigration officers last month, seeking to identify what caused the eight skull fractures that landed the man in the intensive care unit of a Minneapolis hospital. ICE has blamed the man for his own injuries, claiming he attempted to flee while handcuffed and 'fell and hit his head against a concrete wall.' However, hospital staff and medical experts have disputed this account, saying the man's injuries are inconsistent with a fall.

Why it matters

The case has raised concerns about the use of force by immigration officers and allegations of racial profiling. It comes amid other federal investigations into alleged misconduct by ICE agents, including a separate incident where officers were accused of lying under oath about a shooting. The investigations could shed light on the treatment of immigrants by federal authorities.

The details

According to the report, Alberto Castañeda Mondragón says ICE agents wrested him from a vehicle, threw him to the ground and repeatedly struck him in the head with a steel baton. ICE claims Castañeda Mondragón attempted to flee while handcuffed and 'fell and hit his head against a concrete wall.' However, hospital staff and a doctor said the man's injuries, including brain hemorrhaging and eight skull fractures, were inconsistent with a fall. Investigators have sought surveillance footage from nearby businesses, but some footage may have been overwritten before law enforcement requested it.

  • The incident occurred on January 8, 2026.
  • Castañeda Mondragón is scheduled to meet with ICE on February 23, 2026 at their main detention facility in Minneapolis.

The players

Alberto Castañeda Mondragón

A 31-year-old Mexican citizen who was allegedly beaten by ICE agents, resulting in eight skull fractures and hospitalization.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal agency that conducted the arrest of Castañeda Mondragón, claiming he was injured when he attempted to flee while handcuffed.

St. Paul Police Department

The local law enforcement agency investigating the incident along with the FBI.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

The federal law enforcement agency also investigating the incident alongside the St. Paul Police Department.

John Choi

The chief prosecutor of Ramsey County, who stated he expects to investigate past and future allegations of criminal conduct by federal agents.

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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.