A 24-year-old Honduran man, Josué Castro Rivera, died while fleeing from federal immigration agents in Virginia, raising concerns over immigration enforcement operations in the U.S.


Castro was reportedly on his way to a gardening job when his vehicle was stopped by ICE officers. His brother, Henry Castro, revealed that he fled on foot after agents attempted to detain him alongside three other passengers.


In a tragic turn of events, while trying to cross Interstate 264 in Norfolk, Rivera was struck and killed by a passing vehicle. This incident follows similar occurrences involving immigrant fatalities during ICE operations under the Trump administration.


“He had a very good heart,” exclaimed Henry Castro about his brother, who had lived in the U.S. for four years, sending money back to support family in Honduras.


The Department of Homeland Security contended that the stop was part of a targeted, intelligence-based operation aimed at individuals residing illegally in the country. They stated that Rivera resisted heavily and fled before the tragic collision occurred.


Virginia State Police reported responding to a crash at approximately 11 a.m. where Rivera was pronounced dead at the scene, yet DHS officials have not provided further comment amid the ongoing investigation.


Family members expressed their grief and anger over the incident, with Henry alleging that his brother was unjustly treated. He is currently seeking funds to have Josué's body returned for burial in Honduras, stating, He didn’t deserve everything that happened to him. The death has raised alarm about the treatment of immigrants under ICE operations, calling into question the agency's approach amidst mounting scrutiny and public outcry.


Similar incidents, including a recent shooting of a Mexican national by immigration agents during a traffic stop, have led to protests and criticism of federal policies regarding immigration enforcement. Advocates urge for more transparency and accountability in the wake of these tragedies, as concerns about the safety of immigrants living in the U.S. continue to grow.