ICE halts most traffic stops in wake of Maine fatal shooting, sources say

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has ordered a halt to most vehicle stops across the country, a significant policy shift prompted by two separate incidents in which agents fatally shot men during stops within a week. The directive was issued Tuesday, one day after an ICE officer killed a driver in Biddeford, Maine. The Department of Homeland Security stated the officer fired out of fear for public safety when the driver attempted to flee. However, questions linger about the justification for the shooting, as ICE policy dictates deadly force is permissible only in cases of imminent danger, not solely to prevent an escape. Video footage of the aftermath exists, but the shooting itself has not been publicly captured on video. Senator Angus King confirmed agents were not wearing body cameras during the incident.

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We are always evaluating our procedures to keep our officers safe and criminals off our streets.

The DHS indicated agents were surveilling a residence linked to an individual with a deportation order when the man was killed. The victim, identified by immigration advocates as 26-year-old Johan Sebastian Duran from Colombia, was legally authorized to work in the United States. His death ignited immediate protests in Maine, with further demonstrations planned. Colombian President Gustavo Petro publicly blamed the U.S. government for Duran's killing, asserting he was targeted due to his perceived status. Petro demanded swift legal and humanitarian action from Colombia's diplomatic mission in the U.S. to hold those responsible accountable.

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fearing for public safety

Duran, who had a family and worked multiple jobs, had roots in Bucaramanga, Colombia. The suspension of traffic stops by ICE reflects an internal review of procedures aimed at enhancing officer safety and apprehending individuals deemed criminals. However, the agency's actions and the circumstances surrounding the shootings have drawn sharp criticism from immigration advocates and international leaders, highlighting ongoing tensions regarding immigration enforcement and the use of force.

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imminent danger of serious bodily injury or death to the officer or to another person