Sons speak at vigil for Houston man killed by ICE agent as officials seek access to evidence

HOUSTON, Texas (KBTX) - Local and state leaders say they are frustrated over a lack of cooperation from federal authorities following the shooting death of a man by an ICE officer last Tuesday.

Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, 52, was shot and killed by a federal agent during a traffic stop. Immigration officials said the agent shot Salgado Araujo after he allegedly rammed a law enforcement vehicle and refused to follow verbal commands. Witnesses have disputed that account.

Three men detained during the operation have also contradicted the federal agent’s account of what happened.

A community vigil was held Saturday in Houston for Salgado Araujo. His sons spoke about their father during the gathering.

“Hug your dad, hug your dad tight, hug him tight,” said Ronaldo Salgado, one of Salgado Araujo’s sons.

Ronaldo also spoke about his father’s legacy during the vigil.

“Every single one of my students will tell you that I’m very proud of the fact that I’m first gen American, that I’m the first in my family to go to college,” Ronaldo said.

Investigation and evidence dispute

Texas officials said federal authorities are not sharing key information about the case. Harris County District Attorney Sean Teare said his office would ask a judge for access to the vehicle involved in the incident if federal authorities do not agree to share access to evidence.

Houston Mayor John Whitmire has also expressed frustration with the lack of cooperation from the federal government.