Former Vice President Kamala Harris took aim at U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) following the fatal shooting of a Colombian national in Maine. The incident drew criticism as some contrasted her response with her silence on high-profile crimes committed by illegal immigrants.
Call for Investigation
Harris demanded a thorough investigation into the death of 26-year-old Joan Sebastian Guerrero. He was shot after allegedly attempting to flee ICE officers during a targeted operation aimed at an illegal immigrant with a final order of removal, according to the Department of Homeland Security.
“Joan Sebastian Guerrero should still be alive,” Harris stated on social media.
She highlighted that this was the second fatality in a week involving ICE agents. Harris mentioned that Guerrero’s death occurred in front of his three-year-old daughter.
Contrasting Reactions
Harris’ remarks quickly faced backlash online. Critics pointed to her role in handling migration issues from Central America during the Biden administration. They accused her of being less vocal about American victims of crimes by illegal immigrants.
Republican politicians referenced the deaths of individuals like Georgia nursing student Laken Riley and Maryland mother Rachel Morin, whose killers were illegal immigrants. Critics noted Harris did not publicly comment on these incidents.
Incident Details
ICE was conducting surveillance in Biddeford, Maine, when Guerrero reportedly fled in a vehicle. DHS stated that an officer fired his weapon fearing for public safety, resulting in Guerrero’s death. A witness claimed Guerrero drove toward the agents before being shot.
DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin clarified that Guerrero was not the operation’s intended target. He had illegally crossed the U.S. border and received a work permit but lacked legal status.
Previous Shooting Incident
Harris also commented on a separate ICE shooting in Houston involving Lorenzo Salgado Araujo. DHS stated he attempted to ram federal officers with his vehicle. Harris expressed condolences and called for an investigation.
Elaine Mallon, a Fox News Digital reporter, covered the story. The White House and Harris did not immediately respond to requests for comment.