Newark Mayor Criticizes ICE Pursuit That Led to Multi-Vehicle Crash

Mayor Ras Baraka says federal immigration agents violated local laws and endangered the community

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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A car chase involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Newark, New Jersey resulted in a multi-vehicle crash, injuring the driver being pursued. Mayor Ras Baraka criticized ICE's actions as reckless and dangerous, noting that New Jersey state law prohibits police chases unless a suspect poses an immediate threat.

Why it matters

The incident highlights tensions between local authorities and federal immigration enforcement, as well as concerns over the safety risks posed by high-speed chases in densely populated urban areas. Mayor Baraka has been a vocal critic of ICE's tactics and their impact on Newark communities.

The details

According to Mayor Baraka, ICE agents attempted to pull over a van in Newark, but the driver fled, leading to a chase that resulted in a multi-vehicle crash. The driver of the van was injured and taken to the hospital, though the extent of their injuries is unclear. Baraka stated that Newark police were not involved in the ICE investigation and only responded to the crash scene.

  • The incident occurred on Wednesday, February 26, 2026.

The players

Ras Baraka

The mayor of Newark, New Jersey, who has been critical of ICE's tactics and their impact on his city's communities.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)

The federal immigration enforcement agency whose agents were involved in the pursuit that led to the multi-vehicle crash in Newark.

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What they’re saying

“Federal authorities should adhere to local laws regarding vehicle pursuits and exercise common sense. Based on the damage they are inflicting on our communities, ICE has no business engaging in chases at anytime, anywhere — but especially in densely populated areas, and on roads still being cleared from a significant snowstorm.”

— Ras Baraka, Mayor of Newark (X)

What’s next

The incident is under investigation, and it is unclear if any charges will be filed against the driver of the van or the ICE agents involved.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between local authorities and federal immigration enforcement, as well as the need for greater coordination and adherence to safety protocols when conducting high-risk operations in densely populated urban areas.