US News

Chicago woman shot by federal agent files lawsuit against US government

A motorist wounded during a federal immigration enforcement operation alleges an agent used unjustified force and lied.

Updated Oct 7, 2026 · 00:42 UTC5 reports

The short version

Marimar Martinez filed a civil suit under the Federal Tort Claims Act against the U.S. government after being shot in Chicago during Operation Midway Blitz.[NBC News · ABC News]
Attorneys for Martinez argue that agent Charles Exum faced no danger and fired five rounds, including from behind her car, contrary to his claims of self-defense.[NBC News · ABC News]
Federal prosecutors initially charged Martinez with attempting to ram agents but subsequently moved to dismiss the case.[NBC News · ABC News]
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed Exum was placed on administrative leave, while attorneys demand criminal charges be brought against him.[NBC News · ABC News]

Marimar Martinez filed a federal civil lawsuit against the U.S. government under the Federal Tort Claims Act.[NBC News · ABC News]
Martinez was shot five times by Customs and Border Protection agent Charles Exum in October 2025 during Operation Midway Blitz in Chicago.[NBC News · ABC News]
The lawsuit alleges battery, assault, negligence, intentional infliction of emotional distress, false arrest, and malicious prosecution.[NBC News]
Prosecutors initially accused Martinez and another person of attempting to ram officers with vehicles before dropping all charges.[NBC News · ABC News]
The Department of Homeland Security confirmed that Exum was placed on administrative leave pursuant to agency policy.[NBC News · ABC News]

It remains unverified whether federal or local prosecutors will pursue criminal charges against agent Charles Exum.[NBC News]
The Department of Homeland Security has not clarified whether Exum remains on administrative leave.[NBC News]

Outlet counts describe coverage, not independent confirmation. Reports may share a wire service or original source.