Austin Man Shot by ICE Faces Court Hearing Amid Ongoing Pain
Wilber Rafael Garces Perez, who was shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer, is seeking release from detention while experiencing significant pain and awaiting surgery.
Wilber Rafael Garces Perez, who was shot by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement officer, is seeking release from detention while experiencing significant pain and awaiting surgery.
· Updated
Wilber Rafael Garces Perez, a Venezuelan national living in Austin, is scheduled to appear in federal court in San Antonio on Wednesday for a hearing on his detention. Garces Perez was shot by an ICE officer on September 20 and remains in custody at the South Texas ICE Processing Center in Pearsall. His attorneys are seeking his release, citing his ongoing pain and the need for surgery due to a fractured clavicle and a bullet lodged in his back.
His legal team has expressed concerns about potential infection and permanent damage if he does not receive adequate medical care. Garces Perez was discharged from an Austin hospital to ICE custody following the shooting. His attorneys have questioned the medical treatment he received post-shooting, a claim ICE disputes.
The incident occurred while Garces Perez was working as a DoorDash driver. Austin police reviewed video footage showing a vehicle pursuit before the shooting. Garces Perez stated he was attempting to find a safe location to pull over, while the Department of Homeland Security maintains he tried to evade arrest.
The shooting and Garces Perez's subsequent detention have led to protests in Austin and outside the detention center in Pearsall. His attorney has requested supporters refrain from gathering at the courthouse during the hearing to maintain decorum.
Garces Perez's attorneys are also warning the public about fraudulent online fundraisers, stating that the only authorized fundraiser is through the Austin Sanctuary Network.
FAQ
What is the current condition of Wilber Rafael Garces Perez?
Wilber Rafael Garces Perez is experiencing significant pain, has a fractured clavicle, limited mobility, and still has a bullet lodged in his back.
Why is Wilber Rafael Garces Perez in federal court?
He is in federal court for a habeas hearing where his attorneys are seeking his release from ICE detention.
