Massachusetts Man Suffers Apparent Seizure During Chaotic ICE Arrest of His Wife

A Massachusetts father experienced an apparent medical emergency during a public confrontation with federal immigration agents. The incident occurred during the arrest of his wife, Juliana Milena Ojeda-Montoya. Bystanders captured the chaotic scene on video in Fitchburg, Massachusetts.

Homeland Security officials stated they were conducting a targeted operation. They accused the man of faking the seizure to obstruct the arrest. The family’s asylum case is currently pending in the U.S.

Conflicting Accounts Emerge from the Confrontation

Carlos Zapata, 24, was driving his wife to her job at Burger King. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers surrounded their car. The vehicle also contained the couple’s 1 ½-year-old daughter.

Zapata told The Boston Globe he lost consciousness during a struggle. He said agents were pushing him and his wife together with their child between them. He claimed he blacked out after agents pressed on his neck.

Official Response and Wider Immigration Context

The Department of Homeland Security issued a strongly worded response. They suggested the medical emergency was a deliberate act. Officials stated medical personnel found no legitimate emergency.

The arrest warrant for Ojeda-Montoya involved an alleged assault. She was wanted for allegedly stabbing a co-worker with scissors. She remains in custody pending removal proceedings.

This incident highlights the tense nature of immigration enforcement operations. The conflicting stories surrounding the ICE arrest seizure underscore deep divisions in public perception. The event continues to spark debate over enforcement methods.

Thought you’d like to know-

What was Juliana Ojeda-Montoya accused of?

She was wanted for an alleged assault involving scissors. The incident reportedly occurred at her workplace in August. Authorities also accused her of throwing a trash can at a coworker.

What was the official response to the seizure?

Homeland Security officials publicly questioned its legitimacy. They stated medical personnel found no emergency. A spokesperson said Zapata was seen on his feet shortly after the incident.

What is the immigration status of the family?

The family is from Ecuador and entered the U.S. unlawfully. They have since applied for asylum. Their case is currently pending and they are authorized to work.

Where did the arrest take place?

The confrontation occurred in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. This city is located about 40 miles northwest of Boston. The stop happened while the family was in their car.

Was the child injured during the incident?

No reports indicate the toddler suffered physical injury. The child was crying during the confrontation. She was in the car between her parents during the struggle.