Vindman Demands Independent Investigations into Killings of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, Johan Sebastian Guerrero

Washington, D.C. - Congressman Eugene Vindman (Va.-07) today joined U.S. Representatives Pramila Jayapal (Wash.-07), Sylvia Garcia (Texas-29), Chellie Pingree (Maine-01), Jamie Raskin (Md.-08), and Bennie G. Thompson (Miss.-02) in calling for independent investigations into Lorenzo Salgado Araujo and Johan Sebastian Guerrero's deaths and demanding that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) halt removal proceedings against the witnesses.

"Both of these incidents have created enormous fear and outrage in the community and raise serious questions about the safety of community members, regardless of immigration status," wrote the Members. "Far too many people, Americans and noncitizens alike, are dead as a result of DHS's reckless actions. There must be accountability and independent investigations."

On July 7th, ICE agents shot and killed Mr. Salgado Araujo, a father of three U.S. citizens who had resided in the country for 35 years. He was reportedly not ICE's target in their operation, and despite ICE's claims that Mr. Salgado Araujo "weaponized his vehicle," no evidence to substantiate that claim has been presented, and it is disputed by witnesses in the vehicle.

On July 13th, ICE agents shot and killed Mr. Guerrero, a father who also was reportedly not the target of enforcement actions. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) claims to have shot him in concern for "public safety" after he "attempted to flee." The agency does not allege that at any point officers feared for their safety. Video of this killing shows ICE officers handcuffing Mr. Guerrero even after he had been shot in the head.

DHS agents, including ICE agents, have shot at least 21 people just since the start of President Donald Trump's second term. Six of these shootings have been fatal, resulting in the death of U.S. citizens and individuals who posed no public safety threat. In two previous shootings, ICE has claimed that victims were also "weaponizing" their vehicles, claims that have turned out to be false statements as evidence emerged.

In addition to the demands for an independent investigation and the commitment that witnesses to the killing of Mr. Salgado Araujo not be deported, the Members are asking for a detailed breakdown of all training materials and guidelines around vehicle stops.

The full text of the letter to DHS Secretary Mullin and ICE Acting Director Venturella can be read here.

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