A Venezuelan DoorDash driver, who was shot by US immigration officers in Texas, will not be deported immediately, thanks to a temporary block imposed by a federal judge. The decision provides some relief to Wilber Rafael Garces Perez, 28, who remains in custody with a bullet lodged in his back.
Legal Proceedings and Medical Concerns
Judge Orlando Garcia, appointed by former President Clinton, has called for Garces Perez to attend a court hearing in person next week. His attorney, Kate Lincoln-Goldfinch, has initiated a federal lawsuit seeking a temporary restraining order to halt his deportation. She confirmed that her client is scheduled to appear in court on September 30, effectively pausing any deportation efforts until that date.
Garces Perez’s condition is serious, with a fractured clavicle and significant swelling and pain, according to Lincoln-Goldfinch. Although he is receiving some medical care, she insists that it is inadequate, and she continues to advocate for his rights and health.
Incident and Reactions
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has responded to the incident, labeling Garces Perez an “illegal alien” and defending the medical treatment he has received. DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin criticized “false narratives” and maintained that Garces Perez had been provided with exceptional medical care.
However, the Austin Police Department released footage that captures the moments before and after the shooting, although the actual shooting is not visible. The footage shows officers approaching Garces Perez’s vehicle, with gunshots audible in the background.
Political and Public Response
Calls for an independent investigation into the shooting have emerged, with Texas lawmaker Joaquin Castro among those demanding Garces Perez’s release. The incident has sparked protests in Austin, with demonstrators advocating for ICE to leave the city.
Lincoln-Goldfinch described the events leading to the shooting, stating that Garces Perez was delivering for DoorDash when he was hit by an unmarked black truck, which he did not recognize as an ICE vehicle. After making a U-turn, he was struck again, and agents opened fire, according to the lawyer.
