A confrontation during a federal immigration enforcement operation in South Los Angeles on Tuesday morning resulted in injuries to both a prominent TikTok creator and a deputy U.S. marshal.
Carlitos Ricardo Parias, a 44-year-old Mexican national residing in the U.S. without legal authorization, was shot in the elbow during the incident. A ricochet from the same gunfire struck a deputy U.S. marshal, who was also injured but is expected to recover. Parias remains hospitalized in stable condition, with visitation restricted.
Parias, known online as “Richard LA,” has garnered a significant following on TikTok for his livestreams documenting U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) operations and community events. His content has been recognized for providing real-time insights into immigration enforcement activities, though it has also attracted criticism for potentially complicating law enforcement operations.
The incident occurred near the Santee Education Complex around 8:52 a.m., when federal agents attempted to execute an administrative arrest warrant. According to the Department of Homeland Security, Parias allegedly attempted to flee by ramming his Toyota Camry into law enforcement vehicles, prompting agents to open fire. Authorities stated that the use of force was in response to the perceived threat posed by the vehicle.
Eyewitnesses reported the use of rubber bullets and tear gas during the arrest. A video obtained by the Los Angeles Times shows Parias screaming for help after the shooting, with emergency responders arriving at the scene.
Parias has been charged with assaulting a federal officer, a felony that carries a potential sentence of up to eight years in prison if convicted. Court proceedings have been delayed due to his hospitalization.
The shooting has intensified scrutiny of ICE’s tactics, with immigrant rights advocates criticizing the agency’s increasingly aggressive methods. Los Angeles City Councilmember Curren Price praised Parias, calling him a “pillar of our community” and a courageous citizen journalist whose work has resonated widely in South Central Los Angeles.
The incident highlights ongoing tensions between federal immigration enforcement agencies and local communities, particularly in areas with significant immigrant populations. Advocacy groups continue to call for greater accountability and transparency in ICE operations.
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