Heavily armed driver rams border agent's car in Midtown Manhattan; investigation underway
Authorities recovered armor-piercing ammunition and a scope; suspect in custody as investigators review the incident near the Empire State Building
An off-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection agent's unmarked vehicle was struck by a Dodge Durango around 9 p.m. Friday at East 36th Street and Madison Avenue, near the Empire State Building, police said. The agent, who was not in uniform, pursued the driver as NYPD officers joined the chase. A few blocks later, the motorist was taken into custody on Saturday and faces charges as the investigation continues.
Investigators recovered a scope, a handgun and extra ammunition inside the Durango, including cartridge casings with “Level 3+” scrawled on them, a marking authorities believe indicates armor-piercing rounds. Police said the driver appeared to be impaired by drugs. The suspect's identity has not been released, and authorities have not disclosed whether the driver knew where the border agent worked.
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing. No motive has been released, and investigators are reviewing surveillance video, forensic evidence and witness statements. The incident occurred in a busy Midtown corridor and is being handled by NYPD with cooperation from federal agents as the case proceeds. The driver remains in custody pending charges, and authorities have not provided an update on potential additional arrests or security implications in the area.
The investigation continued Friday night into Saturday as investigators examined the vehicle and the surrounding area for additional evidence. Police emphasized that there was no immediate indication of a broader threat, and they cautioned that details could change as new information emerges.
