Trump, Mullin reject NYC mayor’s call to release ICE shooting suspect
President Donald Trump, Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, New York Governor Kathy Hochul and New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani held a two‑hour conference call on Oct. 8, 2026, after Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents shot suspect Oscar Belgal in the Bronx.
Mayor Mamdani, a self‑identified democratic socialist, demanded that ICE release Belgal immediately, describing him as a criminal with a “three‑year criminal spree” and multiple felony charges, including four robberies, two felony assaults, felony larceny, weapons offenses and dangerous‑drug violations.
Secretary Mullin labeled the mayor’s demand “absurd,” and Trump echoed the sentiment, rejecting any immediate release. Mullin noted that Belgal faced an extensive criminal record and that releasing him would pose a public‑safety risk.
During the call, Trump reportedly offered to turn the suspect over to NYPD custody, a move endorsed by Mullin. Governor Hochul was described as “somewhat respectful and reasonable,” attempting to mediate between the federal and city officials.
Belgal, a 28‑year‑old illegal immigrant from the Dominican Republic, was shot by ICE agents while seated in a vehicle with his five‑year‑old son, who emerged unharmed. Law‑enforcement records indicate the suspect has ties to the Trinitarios gang and prior arrests for robbery and a controlled‑substance sale.
Mamdani’s stance has fueled protests, with the mayor branding ICE “rotten to its core” and calling for the agency’s abolition. Mullin countered that without ICE, “who’s going to take your criminals off the streets of your own town?”
The disagreement underscores a broader clash over immigration enforcement in New York, where city leaders have long advocated for sanctuary policies while federal officials stress the need for strict law‑enforcement actions.
Both parties agreed that the suspect will remain in ICE custody pending further investigation, and that NYPD officials will be notified of any transfer decisions.
