Protests Erupt in Austin Following Shooting of Venezuelan Man by ICE Agent
A masked protester was filmed spray-painting threatening messages on a bridge in Austin, Texas. This was near the location where an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent shot and wounded Wilber Rafael Garces Perez, a Venezuelan man, while he delivered food for DoorDash. The area near Anderson Square and Research Boulevard has become a focal point for protests since the incident occurred on Sunday.
Graffiti on a pillar captured lines such as “F*** ICE,” “F*** Donald Trump,” and “Kill Donald Trump,” alongside others. Additionally, “Talarico” was seen tagged with a heart and the phrase “love winz” at the base of the column.
The details surrounding the shooting remain unclear. Garces Perez’s lawyer, Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch, explained that her client’s vehicle, a blue Toyota Corolla, was allegedly “sideswiped” twice by ICE officers driving an unmarked vehicle. After being shot, Garces Perez received medical treatment at a hospital and was then released back to ICE custody, still with a bullet inside him. She mentioned that he is suffering from left side paralysis.
A Department of Homeland Security (DHS) representative described Garces Perez as an “illegal alien” who entered the U.S. during the Biden administration and was subject to a final order of removal. DHS stated the shooting happened amidst a law enforcement operation.
Lincoln-Goldfinch characterized her client as an asylum seeker who gained entrance into the U.S. using a parole program, noting he had a valid work permit. She pointed out that the deportation issue arose because he relocated and changed addresses.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis announced that the department is engaged in a thorough investigation of the shooting. This includes collecting physical evidence, reviewing video footage, interviewing witnesses, and working with federal, state, and local agencies to ascertain the facts. She encouraged anyone with helpful photos, videos, or information to come forward, ensuring that investigations would rely on evidence instead of conjecture. Davis emphasized that updates would be given as the investigation progresses and information can be legally shared.
The graffiti drew criticism on social media. Right-wing figures expressed outrage, with Andrew Kolvet from Turning Point USA commenting on the media’s portrayal of the incident. Conservative influencer Nick Sortor demanded decisive federal action.
The shooting prompted responses from Democratic politicians. Texas state representative and U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico called for an independent probe and the release of all available video footage. He emphasized that Garces Perez entered the U.S. legally, maintaining no criminal history, and criticized the actions of the ICE agent.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson shared his discontent and disappointment over the shooting carried out by ICE in Austin’s streets. He urged the involvement of Austin police in the investigation to ensure impartial oversight.
This story is continually developing and will receive updates.