A shocking incident unfolded in Santa Ana, California, when Narciso Barranco, a 48-year-old landscaper and father of three Marines, was violently detained by federal agents. The altercation occurred outside an IHOP restaurant on a Saturday afternoon, sparking outrage and concern among his family and the community.
According to his son, Alejandro Barranco, Narciso was approached by several masked men while working. Alarmed, he attempted to flee but was quickly subdued. Video footage of the incident shows him being pinned down and repeatedly punched. Alejandro reported that his father was pepper-sprayed, beaten, and suffered a dislocated shoulder during the confrontation.
After the incident, Narciso was taken to a detention facility in Los Angeles, where he reportedly went without medical treatment, food, or water for over 24 hours. Alejandro expressed his disbelief at the excessive force used against his father, noting that it seemed disproportionate for a man of Narciso’s size and build.
The family’s distress was compounded by the lack of communication from authorities. Alejandro reached out to the Department of Homeland Security and Immigration and Customs Enforcement for comments, but they did not respond immediately.
The incident has ignited discussions about the treatment of undocumented immigrants and the methods used by federal agents. Alejandro, a Marine veteran himself, understands the complexities faced by his fellow service members who may be just following orders. However, he emphasized the need for change in the system, voicing that many share the same concerns about the treatment of their loved ones.
In response to the incident, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to help the family with legal fees, raising over $48,000 in a short period. Alejandro described his father as a hardworking and kind person, well-known in their community for always lending a helping hand.
This event highlights ongoing tensions surrounding immigration enforcement in the U.S. and raises questions about the methods used by federal agents. As the Barranco family seeks justice and answers, the community rallies in support, calling for a reevaluation of how such situations are handled in the future.