Judge bars deportation of witness in fatal ICE shooting of Mexican homebuilder
Summary
A federal judge has stopped the deportation of Jose Trinidad Rojas Pliego, a witness in the fatal shooting of a Mexican homebuilder by immigration officers in Houston. The shooting happened during a traffic stop and has led to protests and an investigation. Rojas Pliego and other passengers dispute the official account and are seeking legal protection while their cases proceed.Key Facts
- On July 7, 2026, immigration officers shot Lorenzo Araujo Salgado during a traffic stop in Houston.
- Araujo Salgado, a Mexican homebuilder and father of three, had lived in the U.S. for 35 years and was close to gaining legal status.
- Jose Trinidad Rojas Pliego, a passenger in the van, is a witness and has been detained by ICE but was granted protection from deportation by a federal judge.
- The shooting led to protests and calls for an independent investigation.
- The government claims Araujo Salgado tried to run over an officer, but the passengers deny this.
- Two other passengers in the van are also in ICE custody and involved in legal actions.
- The Harris County District Attorney’s Office is assisting the passengers in applying for U visas, which protect crime witnesses.
- An FBI search of the van found white bags labeled by authorities as methamphetamine, but the family says it was a harmless salt mixture used to stay hydrated.
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