Homeland Democrats Demand Answers After ICE Shooting in Austin
(WASHINGTON) – Today, Rep. Bennie G. Thompson (D-MS), Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security, led Committee Democrats in demanding immediate answers from Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin following the shooting of DoorDash driver Wilber Rafael Garces Perez by a U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer in Austin, Texas.
The Members raised alarm over Garces Perez's medical care and efforts to deport him before an investigation into his shooting is complete. On September 20, Garces Perez was shot in the back while delivering a DoorDash order. According to his attorney, he entered the country legally and has no criminal history. Just 13 hours after the shooting, he was transferred to ICE detention with a bullet still lodged near his spine, and has since said he has not received proper medical care.
“We insist that ICE ensure Mr. Garces Perez receives appropriate medical care without further delay.” The Members wrote. “Given DHS’s total lack of credibility in these cases, Mr. Garces Perez must be allowed to remain in the United States while an independent investigation into his shooting is completed.”
Additionally, the Members are demanding all available video footage, information about the ICE officer involved, including any prior use-of-force incidents and current status, records concerning Garces Perez’s medical treatment and transfer to ICE custody, and details regarding any investigations into the shooting.
To read the full letter, click here.
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