Bishop Daniel E. Garcia denounces ICE shooting in Austin

Bishop Daniel E. Garcia of the Diocese of Austin denounced the shooting of a man by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer on Sept. 20. In a statement released that same day, Garcia said he was saddened and disturbed by the incident, noting that increased activity by ICE agents has left many people living in terror and fear. He called for an immigration policy that respects the rule of law while recognizing human dignity.

The man shot, identified by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as a Venezuelan national with a final order of removal, was delivering for DoorDash at the time of the encounter, according to his lawyer. While federal officials stated the shooting occurred after the man attempted to flee arrest during a vehicle pursuit, the man's attorney claims he is in the United States legally with a valid work permit.

Garcia asked the faithful of the diocese to pray for the man, his family, and the community. He also requested that federal, state, and city authorities remain transparent and honest during the investigation to maintain public confidence in government entities. The Department of Homeland Security is investigating the shooting with assistance from the FBI, and the man remains in federal custody in stable condition.