Investigation Underway After ICE Agent Shoots Venezuelan Asylum Seeker in Austin

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted an average of more than 50,000 arrests each month during July 2026 and August 2026. The agency increased enforcement operations across the US throughout the summer of 2026. Three shootings involving ICE officers occurred during vehicle pursuits in July 2026. An ICE officer fatally shot 52-year-old Lorenzo Salgado Araujo in Houston in July 2026. An ICE officer shot 25-year-old Johan Sebastián, a Colombian national, in Maine in July 2026.

An ICE officer also shot Wilber Rafael Garcés Perez during a vehicle pursuit in July 2026. Local officials and community advocates reported concerns regarding federal immigration enforcement tactics. These groups questioned the use of vehicle pursuits and the lack of transparency during these encounters. Local leaders requested independent oversight to ensure accountability for federal agents operating within city limits.

1. The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that Garcés Perez was in the country illegally. The agency confirmed he was subject to a final order of removal. DHS cited this order as the basis for the encounter.

2. The Texas Department of Public Safety received a request for assistance from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on September 20, 2026. State troopers joined the vehicle pursuit at 12:50 p.m. The chase took place on the north side of Austin.

3. A senior administration official reported that Garcés Perez had no criminal history beyond his immigration status. The official released this detail following the shooting.

4. Austin Mayor Kirk Watson requested that the Austin Police Department join the investigation. He sought their involvement to provide third-party oversight. The move promotes transparency in the review.

1. Attorney Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch stated that Garcés Perez is an asylum seeker. She said he entered the US through a parole program. This account conflicts with the Department of Homeland Security claim regarding his legal status.

2. US Representative Greg Casar demanded the release of footage and records regarding the shooting. He requested an end to the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) surge in Austin.

3. Protesters gathered at the scene on September 20, 2026, to demonstrate against the shooting. Texas Department of Public Safety troopers deployed tear gas and tackled participants.

4. The League of United Latin American Citizens asked Congress to establish independent oversight of immigration enforcement. The organization seeks to prevent future incidents of this type.