Colombian man with work authorization killed by ICE agents in Maine; investigation underway

A 26-year-old Colombian migrant, who had legal work authorization and a Social Security Number in the United States, was killed by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in Maine on Monday. The incident has prompted investigations by state and federal authorities.

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He was bleeding profusely from the head. He was talking. He said, ‘I tried to stop.’

Witnesses described a chaotic scene. Daniel Boucher, who was preparing for work, reported hearing sounds like fireworks, followed by seeing agents remove the driver of a sedan. "He was bleeding profusely from the head," Boucher told the Portland Press Herald. "He was talking. He said, ‘I tried to stop.’" Boucher added, "Nobody should have to see what I saw."

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Nobody should have to see what I saw.

Maine's Attorney General's office stated that initial reports indicate an ICE Enforcement Removal Operations officer was executing a removal order when the subject attempted to flee in a vehicle toward the officer, resulting in the fatal shooting. Senator Angus King (I-Maine) confirmed he spoke with Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin, who allegedly told him the victim "weaponized" his vehicle. The FBI is also investigating the shooting, according to Senator Susan Collins (R-Maine).

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The shooting in Biddeford requires a full and impartial investigation of what happened.

Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain expressed being "shaken" by the news and called for a "full, thorough and transparent investigation." He emphasized that the victim's loved ones and the community deserve clear answers. The Colombian Embassy in Washington, D.C., is reportedly assisting in identifying the victim and confirming his nationality. This incident follows a similar fatal shooting by ICE agents last week involving a Mexican immigrant in Texas.

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A person has died and their loved ones and the people of our community deserve clear answers about what happened.