ICE told to halt most vehicle stops after pair of fatal shootings

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents have been ordered to cease most vehicle stops across the country. This directive follows two recent fatal shootings involving ICE agents in Texas and Maine. The suspension applies to nearly all circumstances, with exceptions for cases involving serious criminal targets, according to U.S. media reports citing unnamed law enforcement sources.

This significant policy change comes amid growing criticism of the agency regarding allegations of excessive force and scrutiny over deaths during its operations. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has been contacted for comment.

In Maine, an ICE agent fatally shot a 26-year-old Colombian national during an immigration enforcement operation. DHS stated the officer fired, "fearing for public safety," after the man attempted to flee and agents tried to stop his vehicle. Immigration advocates identified the man as authorized to work in the U.S. and possessing a social security number, calling his death "devastating, enraging, and unacceptable."

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fearing for public safety

Less than a week prior, a 52-year-old Mexican national was killed by an ICE officer in Houston, Texas. DHS claimed the officer acted in self-defense during a stop initiated because a vehicle "resembled the target" of an operation. However, passengers in the van and the victim's family dispute this account, and the agency's watchdog is investigating.

Both shootings have sparked protests and add to a series of fatal encounters. At least seven people have died in immigration enforcement operations since January 2025, according to Reuters.

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devastating, enraging, and unacceptable