UPDATE: A shocking incident unfolded in Los Angeles on November 4, 2025, as federal agents reportedly drove off with a toddler during an immigration enforcement operation. The child, a 1-year-old girl, was strapped in the backseat of her father’s vehicle when agents detained her father, Dennis Quinonez, outside a Home Depot in Cypress Park.
Witnesses report that Quinonez, 32, exited his SUV armed with a hammer and began throwing rocks at the federal agents, who were conducting the raid. In a chaotic scene, agents boxed in Quinonez’s vehicle to prevent him from leaving, prompting him to shout that his daughter was inside. As tensions escalated, agents attempted to manage the situation by moving both Quinonez and his daughter to a different location.
According to a criminal complaint, as agents placed Quinonez in his SUV, one of them spotted a loaded handgun wrapped in a blue bandana. The firearm, allegedly stolen from New York State, was discovered during a search of the vehicle. Quinonez, who has a prior conviction for domestic violence, is prohibited from possessing a firearm. He reportedly claimed the weapon belonged to a friend.
A spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security stated, “He was arrested for assault, and during his arrest, a pistol was found in his car.” The situation has drawn widespread condemnation, with attorney Linda Toczylowski from the Immigrant Defenders Law Center describing the agents’ actions as “extremely dangerous” for the child.
The child was returned to family members, but her grandmother, Maria Avalos, expressed distress after witnessing the incident. “When I picked up my granddaughter from federal agents, she had a dirty diaper, a bruise on her face, and was developing a rash. She was exhausted and cried,” Avalos said in a statement.
California Governor Gavin Newsom echoed the public outrage, sharing the story on social media and stating simply, “This is sick.” Quinonez now faces federal charges for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.
In addition to Quinonez, five other undocumented immigrants were arrested during the operation, with reported criminal records including DUI and prior deportations. This incident raises critical questions about immigration enforcement practices and the safety of vulnerable individuals, particularly children, caught in such operations.
As the story develops, community members and advocates continue to voice their concerns over the aggressive tactics used by federal agents. The ramifications of this incident are expected to resonate throughout Los Angeles and beyond as discussions about immigration policies and enforcement strategies intensify. Stay tuned for updates on this urgent situation.
