Gang members allegedly opened fire on FBI agents during a sweeping investigation into a Mexican Mafia-linked drug operation in San Diego County. The raids led to 35 arrests and the seizure of firearms, drugs and cash.
The shooting erupted around 6:10 a.m. Wednesday as agents attempted to serve an arrest warrant at a Lemon Grove residence, the Justice Department said.
After announcing themselves, the agents were met with several gunshots fired from the home’s front door and a window.
Agents returned fire briefly before moving to safety, and no one was injured. Tactical officers then surrounded the property. The suspect later came out and was taken into custody, while the circumstances surrounding the shooting remain under investigation.
The violence did not halt a two-day operation involving hundreds of law enforcement officers. Four federal indictments name 42 alleged gang members and associates; authorities had arrested 35 people, carried out 10 search warrants and continued searching for seven fugitives as of Thursday afternoon.
The operation focused on Varrio Hidden Hills, a Poway street gang that authorities describe as increasingly violent and allegedly connected to the Mexican Mafia.
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Investigators identified John Marquez, 49, as a central figure. He is accused of overseeing an international drug-trafficking network that moved methamphetamine and fentanyl into communities across California.
Court records allege that Marquez directed distribution networks, established prices and arranged for drug proceeds to be sent back to suppliers in Mexico.
During one conversation with a supplier, Marquez allegedly discussed an impending trip to Mexico, saying: “I have to count some money and send it to Sinaloa.”
According to court documents, the alleged network bought methamphetamine for between $750 and $900 per pound and fentanyl for $12,500 to $13,000 per kilogram.
“These arrests strike at the heart of this violent, sophisticated, Mexican Mafia connected criminal gang,” US Attorney Adam Gordon said.
The investigation began in mid-2024 and expanded across several California communities, including San Diego, Chula Vista, Oceanside, Riverside and Temecula.
The defendants are facing charges related to the distribution and conspiracy of methamphetamine, fentanyl and cocaine.
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