Austin is still grappling with the aftermath of a shooting incident involving an ICE agent that occurred on September 20, 2026. Congressman Greg Casar has been vocal in his condemnation of the event, expressing deep anger and frustration during a recent press conference. His remarks came in the wake of a confrontation that left a Venezuelan national wounded.
Wilber Garces Perez, the 28-year-old victim, recounted the events leading up to the shooting. While making a DoorDash delivery, he found himself in an alarming situation when an SUV, occupied by ICE agents, attempted to ram his vehicle. Initially believing he was being pursued by an aggressive driver, Perez soon realized the intent of the officers. He requested to pull over for a detainment, but the agents refused and instead collided with his car. In an attempt to find a safe place to stop, Perez made a U-turn, at which point the officers shot him.
The Department of Homeland Security has confirmed that Garces Perez is an undocumented immigrant who entered the United States during the Biden administration and has a final order of removal. This has further fueled the outrage surrounding the incident, with Casar leading calls for accountability and transparency.
During a subsequent press event organized by LULAC, Casar reiterated his stance against the actions of federal officials, stating, “I don’t care if you’re a Democrat or a Republican, we all believe the federal government should not be allowed to shoot you and then you disappear from the country so that no one can be held responsible. That is deeply un-American, and we’re not going to let it happen.”
Republican challenger Lauren Pena responded to Casar’s statements, emphasizing her disapproval of his approach. Pena criticized Casar for inciting public outrage, arguing that he had previously campaigned against funding for police and ICE, questioning the availability of body camera footage from the incident.
Both Casar and Pena have expressed their views on the implications of the shooting amidst ongoing discussions about immigration policy and law enforcement practices. Casar has laid out his vision for a reformed Homeland Security approach, advocating for the return of taxpayer dollars to working-class families and a pathway to legal status for undocumented immigrants. In contrast, Pena highlighted existing municipal support for undocumented residents, asserting the need to prioritize local issues before expanding assistance to others.
The congressional district represented by Casar, which encompasses parts of east Austin, Hays County, and northern San Antonio, remains a Democratic stronghold, despite recent redistricting efforts aimed at benefiting Republicans. As the midterm elections approach, Pena is determined to challenge Casar’s narrative and has called for a debate prior to voting.
As investigations by the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI commence, community leaders and residents are left questioning the accountability of federal law enforcement and the broader implications for immigration policy in the region.
