A protester, wearing a mask, was captured on film spray-painting ‘Kill Donald Trump’ on a bridge in Austin, Texas. This act occurred near the location where an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent shot and injured a Venezuelan man, Wilber Rafael Garces Perez, linked to food deliveries for DoorDash.
The incident site, close to Anderson Square and Research Boulevard, has become a focal point for protests since Garces Perez was shot. A photo taken on the following day revealed graffiti on a pillar with phrases like ‘F*** ICE,’ ‘F*** Donald Trump,’ ‘Kill all pedos,’ and ‘Kill Donald Trump,’ among others. The graffiti also included the name ‘Talarico’ adorned with a heart symbol and ‘love winz.’
The precise details surrounding the shooting remain unclear. According to Garces Perez’s attorney, Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch, his blue Toyota Corolla was ‘sideswiped’ twice by ICE officers driving an unmarked vehicle. She stated he was shot, hospitalized, and later taken into ICE custody with a bullet lodged in him, now suffering from left-side paralysis.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) identifies Garces Perez as an ‘illegal alien’ under a final order of removal stemming from his entry into the country during the Biden administration. The shooting reportedly occurred in the context of a law enforcement operation.
Lincoln-Goldfinch insists her client sought asylum and gained entry into the U.S. via a parole program. She highlighted that he holds a valid work permit and contends that his deportation order came about due to address changes.
Austin Police Chief Lisa Davis confirmed that the department is carrying out a thorough investigation. They are reviewing evidence, video footage, and witness statements in collaboration with federal, state, and local partners. Davis called on the public to share any photos, videos, or information relevant to the investigation, emphasizing a commitment to following evidence rather than speculation.
The graffiti incident has stirred considerable backlash from right-wing figures on social media. Andrew Kolvet of Turning Point USA criticized the portrayal of those responsible as ‘loving’ and ‘tolerant.’ Nick Sortor, a conservative influencer, expressed intense disdain, demanding swift federal intervention.
Conversely, the shooting of Garces Perez has spurred calls to action from Democratic officials. James Talarico, a Texas state representative and U.S. Senate candidate, urged for an independent inquiry and the release of all pertinent video footage. He stated that Garces Perez entered the country legally with no criminal record and denounced the actions as lawlessness rather than law enforcement.
Austin Mayor Kirk Watson voiced his anger and disappointment over an ICE agent shooting a person on Austin streets. He advocated for the Austin police to be involved in the investigation to provide an unbiased perspective.