Who is Richard LA? TikTok Star Shot and Arrested After Confrontation with ICE Agents in Los Angeles

TikTok personality Richard LA, whose real name is Carlitos Ricardo Parias, was shot and injured by ICE agents and a U.S. Marshal during an immigration operation in South Los Angeles on the morning of October 21, 2025.

According to a statement from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the 30-year-old content creator is accused of ramming his vehicle into law enforcement cars in an attempt to escape arrest. Acting U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli later confirmed Richard’s identity after the incident sparked intense attention online.

What Happened During the Shooting Incident

Authorities said that ICE agents had set up surveillance in South-Central Los Angeles to arrest Richard, who was already facing an administrative immigration warrant.

When Richard left his house and spotted the agents, he allegedly tried to flee, colliding with two official vehicles. Officials stated that he refused to surrender, moved his car back and forth, and continued hitting vehicles while agents surrounded him.

As officers attempted to break his car window, smoke and debris began to fill the area. The situation escalated when an agent opened fire, striking both Richard LA and a deputy U.S. marshal, who was hit by a ricochet bullet.

Both were taken to a downtown Los Angeles hospital, where they are expected to recover.

Federal Response and Charges

Following the incident, Bill Essayli emphasized that vehicles can be “deadly weapons,” warning that anyone who uses them against federal agents will face severe consequences.

He said on X (formerly Twitter): “We will continue to use every tool in our legal arsenal to protect our agents and enforce immigration laws passed by Congress.”

Assistant Secretary for Homeland Security Tricia McLaughlin also issued a statement saying agents fired defensive shots after fearing for their safety and the safety of the public.

Richard LA now faces multiple charges, including assaulting a federal officer, which could result in up to eight years in prison if convicted. He will be transferred to the Roybal Federal Building in downtown Los Angeles for further legal proceedings.

Who Is Richard LA?

Richard LA is a TikTok influencer known for posting videos related to immigration enforcement and community activism. He has over 100,000 followers and previously received a Certificate of Recognition from Councilmember Curren Price’s office for his work empowering residents in South Los Angeles.

Before this incident, authorities claimed that Richard had previously evaded arrest. His content often focused on immigration rights, community awareness, and police encounters, making him a recognizable figure in local activist circles.

Public Reaction and Ongoing Investigation

The shooting has triggered mixed reactions online. Supporters of Richard LA are questioning the use of force, while others are calling for transparency from federal agencies.

The LAPD confirmed that they were not directly involved in the incident but are assisting in coordination with federal authorities for the investigation.