In a shocking confrontation that underscores rising tensions at the U.S.-Mexico border, a Montebello man was violently detained by federal agents despite repeatedly asserting his American citizenship. The incident, captured on video, raises urgent questions about civil rights and the treatment of citizens during immigration enforcement operations.

Witnesses report that the man, who was working at a tow yard, stepped outside to find Border Patrol agents questioning individuals nearby. He immediately declared, “I am American,” but his pleas fell on deaf ears. Instead of receiving any consideration, he was allegedly thrown to the ground after failing to provide the name of the hospital where he was born—a detail he did not know. The encounter escalated when his friend, also a U.S. citizen, was reportedly slammed to the floor, leaving him bleeding from the forehead.

As the situation intensified, the agent confiscated the man’s phone and identification, only releasing them when a bystander began recording the incident. “Is this guy going to come and pick me up at 3:00 in the morning?” he questioned, shaken by the experience. The man vowed to speak out against what he described as blatant mistreatment, stating, “People are being attacked, and I’m an American. I’m as well.”

The alarming incident highlights growing fears within communities about aggressive immigration enforcement tactics. U.S. Customs and Border Protection has yet to comment on the matter, but the man’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the precarious balance between national security and the rights of American citizens. As tensions flare, many are left wondering: if this can happen to him, who else is at risk? The call for accountability and justice has never been more urgent.