Nearby ICE-Related Shooting Raises Concerns With Bernards Township Residents

A shooting related to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations is being investigated in a Morris County suburb.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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A shooting incident involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in the nearby town of Roxbury has prompted officials in Bernards Township, New Jersey to share information with residents, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, about their rights when interacting with immigration enforcement officers.

Why it matters

The shooting has raised concerns among Bernards Township residents about ICE operations in the region, especially after Roxbury previously dealt with plans to turn a local warehouse into an ICE detention center. The township is now providing resources to educate residents on their rights when encountering immigration enforcement.

The details

On Tuesday, ICE agents were conducting an operation in Roxbury to apprehend Jesus Fabian Lopez-Banegas, a Honduran national wanted for drug trafficking, drug possession, and driving under the influence. During the arrest, Lopez-Banegas allegedly attempted to evade agents, ramming into a law enforcement vehicle and trying to run over an agent with his own car.

  • The shooting incident occurred on Tuesday.
  • In 2021, a judge ordered Lopez-Banegas to be removed from the country.

The players

Ana Duarte McCarthy

The mayor of Bernards Township, New Jersey.

Jesus Fabian Lopez-Banegas

A Honduran national wanted by ICE for drug trafficking, drug possession, and driving under the influence.

Department of Homeland Security (DHS)

The federal agency that oversees Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

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What they’re saying

“In light of recent activity in Morristown from the office of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, we had received inquiries from residents, primarily those of underrepresented backgrounds, concerned about whether they should be carrying identification.”

— Ana Duarte McCarthy, Mayor of Bernards Township (patch.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Lopez-Banegas to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and concerns within communities about the role and tactics of ICE, underscoring the need for clear communication and education about residents' rights when interacting with immigration enforcement.