A 21-year-old man in Santa Ana was permanently blinded in one eye after a Department of Homeland Security agent fired a “less-lethal” round at close range, according to medical records and video from the scene.
The incident was captured on camera, showing the moment the round was fired. Shortly afterward, the injured man was transported for emergency medical care.
Doctors performed a six-hour surgery to remove fragments of plastic, glass, and metal embedded in his face, hospital officials confirmed. Despite the operation, doctors determined the vision loss in one eye is permanent.
“Less-lethal” rounds are designed for crowd control and compliance, but medical experts note they can cause severe injury if used at close range or if they strike sensitive areas such as the face.
DHS has not released detailed information explaining the circumstances that led to the discharge of the round or whether any internal review has been initiated.
Civil rights advocates have called for transparency and a review of use-of-force protocols involving so-called less-lethal munitions.
The video has circulated widely online, prompting renewed debate about how and when such munitions should be deployed.
Officials are expected to provide additional details as reviews continue and more information becomes available.
