OCA Condemns Fatal ICE Shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo
For Immediate Release
July 10, 2026
Media Contact:
Socheata Sun, Senior Communications Associate
socheata.sun@ocanational.org
Washington, D.C. — OCA - Asian Pacific American Advocates is deeply disturbed by the fatal shooting of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers on July 7 in Houston, Texas.
According to reports, Mr. Salgado Araujo had lived in the United States for nearly 35 years, worked in construction to support his family, and was in the process of obtaining legal status. He was reportedly picking up members of his work crew when the encounter with ICE officers occurred. Witnesses have described hearing a gunshot and cries for help moments before his death. Following the shooting, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) alleged that Mr. Salgado Araujo used his vehicle as a weapon against federal officers.
“The loss of any human life during an immigration enforcement operation is a tragedy that demands answers,” said Thu Nguyen, Executive Director of OCA - Asian Pacific American Advocates. “No family should be left searching for the truth after a loved one is killed. Public trust depends on a full, independent accounting of what occurred, guided by evidence, transparency, and accountability.”
The tragedy comes amid growing concerns over the increasing use of force during immigration enforcement operations. Every individual, regardless of immigration status, deserves to be treated with dignity, afforded due process, and protected under the law. OCA stands with the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) in calling for a thorough, independent investigation and urges federal officials to cooperate fully with oversight efforts to ensure it is conducted impartially, transparently, and without delay.
OCA extends our deepest condolences to the Salgado Araujo family during this time of profound grief. We honor Lorenzo Salgado Araujo's life and join advocates, community leaders, and families across the nation in calling for humane immigration policies that prioritize the dignity and constitutional rights of all people.
###
About OCA - Asian Pacific American Advocates
Founded in 1973, OCA–Asian Pacific American Advocates is a national, member-driven social justice organization of community advocates dedicated to advancing the sociopolitical and holistic well-being of all Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders (AANHPIs). Learn more about our work at ocanational.org/about.