A 26-year-old Colombian man was fatally shot by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents during an operation in Biddeford, Maine, on July 13, 2026. The shooting follows a similar incident just days earlier involving an ICE agent in Texas.
Details of the Incident
According to Maine’s attorney general’s office, the shooting occurred when ICE agents attempted to conduct an enforcement operation related to a deportation order. Reports indicate that the individual attempted to flee in a vehicle, prompting the agent to discharge their weapon.
“A person has died, and their loved ones and the people of our community deserve clear answers about what happened,” said Biddeford Mayor Liam LaFountain.
Liam LaFountain, Mayor of Biddeford
- The victim was reportedly authorized to work in the U.S.
- Protests erupted in response to the shooting, demanding accountability.
Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots, and one bystander recalled the victim saying, 'I tried to stop' before succumbing to his injuries. The scene was cordoned off by police, with a forensics unit present.
In the wake of the shooting, the FBI announced an investigation, and the agent involved was placed on administrative leave. These actions are part of standard protocol following police-involved shootings.
Community Response and Implications
The Maine Immigrants’ Rights Coalition and Presente Maine condemned the incident, emphasizing the need for transparency in immigration enforcement operations. Governor Janet Mills expressed her horror at the tragedy, highlighting that unconfirmed reports suggested the victim was not the intended target.
This incident has reignited debates over the aggressive tactics employed by ICE, especially under President Donald Trump’s administration. With this shooting marking one of several fatalities linked to immigration enforcement this year, community leaders are calling for a reevaluation of current practices.