ICE targets Montebello car wash again, along with multiple sites across the city

On Wednesday, January 14, 2026, Union Del Barrio documented more than 15 locations where federal immigration enforcement personnel conducted operations, including the Maywood, Alhambra, East Los Angeles, El Monte, Pico Rivera, Montebello and more.

Last year, a car wash in Montebello got targeted twice. The first raid occurred on June 19 at the corner of East Beverly Boulevard and Poplar Avenue. Express Car Wash was raided and cameras from the business captured the moment when three vehicles arrived and detained three of the car wash employees. 

“'We’ll be back,'” said one of the agents, according to Salvador Melendez, mayor of Montebello. “They detained three hardworking members of our community, people who were simply trying to earn a living.”

On Thursday, July 3, immigration officials kept their promise of returning to the car wash for a second operation. And yesterday they targeted the same car wash once again, taking three individuals, including one person who was carrying documentation.

ICE agents were also reported in different areas of the city, targeting other car washes and construction workers, even at private homes. Video footage shows ICE agents surrounding the area, with one agent climbing stairs to reach the roof and pursue workers. In the video, workers can be seen jumping to nearby rooftops to escape.

Another business that was targeted was Alas Recycling on Whittier Blvd. and 18th Street, where a resident of more than 40 years was detained around 11:30 in the morning. No warrant was presented during the encounter, according to the mayor.

“Throughout the day, ICE officers have been spotted all across Montebello, detaining workers from a car wash, roofers on job sites and street vendors trying to earn a living,” said Melendez. “These actions jeopardize community safety and target the very people who sustain our local economy. These are hardworking individuals who are an essential part of our community. Stay vigilant Montebello.”

Yesterday, the City Council held a meeting regarding the raids that occurred in the community and is continuing to gather information about additional operations that took place at other locations.

The City encourages residents to remain calm, informed and respectful. Anyone who observes suspicious activity or situations that may impact public safety is encouraged to contact the Montebello Police Department at (323) 887-1313. Community members looking for additional information and resources are encouraged to visit the Los Angeles County Office of Immigrant Affairs at oia.lacounty.gov.