Bishops Respond to Killing of Johan Guerrero by an ICE Agent "we need to see and treat each other as men and women created in the image and likeness of God"



Bishops respond to the killing of an innocent man by I.C.E. agents. According to reports, Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero, a 26-year-old Colombian national and father of a 3-year-old, was shot and killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent on the morning of Monday, July 13, 2026, in Biddeford, Maine. The fatal shooting took place at the intersection of Pool and Hill streets while Durán Guerrero was driving to his job. [1, 2, 3]

The Shooting Incident
The Confrontation: The incident occurred during an immigration operation in Biddeford. According to statements from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the ICE agent involved alleged that Durán Guerrero attempted to strike him, causing the officer to fear for his life. Durán Guerrero was shot four times. [1, 2, 3, 5]
Not the Target: DHS and ICE officials subsequently confirmed that Durán Guerrero was not the intended target of the immigration operation. [1, 2]
Agent History: The ICE agent who fired the fatal shots has been identified as David Michael Brouillette. Following the shooting, he was placed on standard administrative leave. Investigative reports quickly surfaced detailing that Brouillette has a documented personal history of severe psychiatric issues and domestic violence. [1, 2, 3]
Statement from the Portland diocese on the death of Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero

In response to the tragic death of Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero, the Diocese of Portland's Hispanic Ministry is providing pastoral support to his family and community. We pray that all those affected by his death may experience God's loving comfort, strength, and peace.

Statement to the Faithful of the Archdiocese on the Death of Mr. Lorenzo Salgado Araujo
by Archbishop Joe S. Vásquez

Archbishop Vásquez’s Statement to the Faithful of the Archdiocese on the Death of Mr. Lorenzo Salgado AraujoHaving reflected on the death of Mr. Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, I ask all the faithful of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston to join me and Bishop Italo Dell’Oro, CRS in prayer for Mr. Salgado Araujo, his family, and all those affected by fear and anxiety. Also, please join us in praying for unity and peace in our community and nation.

As a society, we need to see and treat each other as men and women created in the image and likeness of God, including our immigrant brothers and sisters, our elected officials, as well as our law enforcement officers. Violence and disrespect will only lead to more fear and division.

The U.S. Catholic Bishops have repeatedly called for enforcement efforts that are targeted, proportional, and humane. Furthermore, the bishops have expressed the necessity for meaningful immigration reform as opposed to an “enforcement-only approach.” A reform that brings about justice to all parties requires peaceful dialogue, mutual respect, and a commitment to charity.

Only with Christ’s help and by working together will we have a nation under God with liberty and justice for all!

Sincerely yours in Christ,

The Most Reverend Joe S. Vásquez
Archbishop of Galveston-Houston
https://archgh.org/news/statement-death-lorenzo-salgado-araujo

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