A U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer shot and killed an illegal immigrant in Houston during an enforcement operation on Tuesday. The man, identified as Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, a Mexican national, was living in the country without legal permission. According to the Department of Homeland Security, Salgado Araujo ignored commands and attempted to ram an agent who fired his weapon in self-defense.
Details of the Shooting
The shooting occurred when ICE agents attempted to arrest Salgado Araujo, who was targeted in an operation because he was living in the country without legal permission. The man’s car struck an ICE vehicle, and he was shot after attempting to ram an agent. Salgado Araujo died after being transported to a hospital.
The FBI’s Houston field office is investigating a potential assault on a federal law enforcement officer. The incident has drawn calls from Democratic officials and immigrant rights groups for an independent investigation.
Reaction to the Shooting
Democratic U.S. Rep. Sylvia Garcia, who represents the neighborhood where the shooting took place, said the initial account released by federal authorities needs to be independently verified. The League of United Latin American Citizens is offering a $5,000 reward for information and videos from witnesses.
Original reporting: WTVQ (Lexington) — read the source article.