October 21, 2026 9:18 pm

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Employee of Lynnwood business taken into custody by ICE posing as customers

LYNNWOOD—On October 17, 2026, federal immigration agents detained 26-year-old Christopher Ruiz de Jesus outside TOS Wheels and Tires in Lynnwood, where he was employed, Fox Q13 first reported.

Surveillance video shows a man entering the shop without a mask, approaching Ruiz de Jesus at the counter, and inquiring about tire sizes and a vehicle as if he were a customer. The man then asked Ruiz de Jesus to step outside to assist with the car. Once outside, the individual donned a mask, and other masked agents in tactical gear took Ruiz de Jesus into custody.

Federal officials have not publicly detailed the specific basis for the arrest.

In March 2026, the Lynnwood City Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2026-05, the Protecting Immigrant Safety Resolution, which was spearheaded and drafted by Councilwoman Isabel Mata. The measure reaffirms constitutional rights, limits the use of city resources for civil immigration enforcement consistent with state law such as the Keep Washington Working Act, and directs city staff to develop accessible resources including information on legal rights, social services, tenants’ rights, language access, and emergency assistance.

The resolution and related efforts include steps to support families affected by ICE apprehensions. Proposed assistance includes assessing family impacts after a detention, offering resources, and exploring aid such as rental or mortgage support during prolonged absences.

The resolution took effect immediately upon its March 9, 2026, passage and directs ongoing coordination between the mayor, police chief, and city departments to implement these measures.

Mario Lotmore
Author: Mario Lotmore

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