Details Emerge on Fatal Shooting During ICE Operation in Maine

A spokesperson for Immigration and Customs Enforcement has provided information regarding the fatal shooting of a Colombian man during an immigration enforcement action in Maine.

The specifics of the shooting in Biddeford early Monday morning remain somewhat unclear, but ICE confirmed via email to Blaze News that the individual was undocumented.

“Was there a threat to the officer? Did that threat justify the use of deadly force? That’s what this investigation aims to clarify,” a statement noted.

ICE elaborated that on July 13, 2026, around 7:00 a.m. ET, an order for the man’s removal was issued, leading agents to watch his last known address. When he left in a vehicle, attempts were made to stop him. As he tried to flee, fearing for public safety, agents discharged their firearms.

Maine Senator Angus King mentioned to reporters that the man was the target of the operation. He indicated he had received an update from the Ministry of Justice. Markwayne Mullin of the Department of Homeland Security stated the deceased individual had not been previously wanted.

The driver of the vehicle sustained some injuries during the incident and called for emergency services, but unfortunately, he later died from his wounds, according to ICE.

The Maine Immigrant Rights Coalition identified the man as a 26-year-old from Colombia, asserting he had permission to work in the U.S. and even received a Social Security card. His identity has been confirmed as João Sebastian Guerrero.

King reported that Mullin claimed the man used his vehicle in a threatening manner. Aligning with Democratic views, he emphasized the need for a comprehensive investigation into the shooting’s circumstances.

The senator questioned, “What did he do with his car? Were officers endangered? Did the perceived threat justify the deadly force applied?” He stressed the importance of transparency and thoroughness in the ongoing investigation.

ICE has mentioned that both Biddeford Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are involved in the investigation.

“This is an evolving story, and additional details will be provided as they become available,” the statement concluded.

Following the shooting, protests against ICE erupted, with demonstrators gathering outside Maine Republican Senator Susan Collins’ office, calling for her resignation.

In related news, Democratic candidate Graham Platner’s re-election efforts were disrupted after he withdrew from the race amid a series of scandals, including sexual assault accusations.