ICE Agent Who Killed Migrant Had History of Violence, Family Says

ICE Agent Identified in Fatal Maine Shooting of Colombian Migrant

The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent who fatally shot 25-year-old Colombian national Johan Sebastian Duran Guerrero in Biddeford, Maine, on July 13, 2026, has been identified as David Brouillette, 37. According to family members, court records, and ex-wives who spoke to the Associated Press, Brouillette has a documented history of violent behavior, domestic abuse, and severe mental health issues — raising serious questions about ICE's screening process for new recruits.

The shooting occurred during a morning traffic stop at the intersection of Pool and Hill streets. ICE officials initially claimed that Guerrero attempted to flee in his vehicle, prompting the agent to fire out of concern for bystander safety. However, ICE use of force incidents have come under increased scrutiny as the agency has ramped up enforcement under President Trump's second term.

Background of the Agent: A Troubling Record

Brouillette, a former U.S. Army veteran who served in Afghanistan, was diagnosed with bipolar disorder and ADHD as a child, according to relatives. His ex-wife alleges he threw boiling water at her while she was holding their child. Court documents obtained by AP detail multiple protective orders filed by another ex-wife, citing threats, harassment, and physical assault.

Despite this record, Brouillette was hired by ICE in 2026 as part of a massive recruitment drive to enforce the administration's hardline immigration policies. He previously worked as a police officer at the Togus VA hospital and briefly as a Maine prison guard. A family member told AP: "He has been struggling with severe mental problems since his youth. We warned authorities, but no one listened."

The Department of Homeland Security has refused to officially confirm Brouillette's identity, while ICE stated only that the agent has "nearly a decade of federal law enforcement experience" and completed required training. Critics argue that ICE hiring practices and background checks failed to flag clear red flags.

The Shooting and Aftermath

Guerrero, a Colombian migrant who had been living in the U.S., leaves behind a wife and young daughter. The shooting sparked immediate protests in Biddeford and across the country, with activists demanding accountability and an independent investigation. Maine's congressional delegation has called for a transparent probe.

In response to the incident and a separate fatal shooting in Houston days earlier, ICE temporarily suspended most traffic stops on July 14. However, President Trump quickly overturned that decision, calling traffic stops "a vital part of our immigration enforcement." White House officials confirmed Trump was furious over the pause and pressured ICE to resume operations immediately.

Rising Deaths Linked to ICE Enforcement

According to The Trace, a journalism collective tracking police violence, at least 19 people have been shot by ICE agents since Trump's second term began in January 2025, with eight fatalities. The Guardian reported that at least eight people died in ICE-related incidents in just the first month of 2026, following 32 deaths in ICE custody in 2025 — the highest number since 2004.

The rising number of ICE custody deaths has drawn condemnation from human rights groups. In the Maine case, ICE agents were not equipped with body cameras, making it difficult to independently verify the agency's account of events. Brouillette has reportedly told relatives he acted in self-defense and is currently in protective custody.

FAQ: ICE Shootings and Accountability

Who is David Brouillette?

David Brouillette is the 37-year-old ICE agent identified as the shooter in the July 13, 2026 killing of Johan Sebastian Duran Guerrero in Biddeford, Maine. He has a documented history of domestic violence and mental health issues.

What happened during the traffic stop?

ICE claims Guerrero tried to flee in his vehicle, and the agent fired to protect bystanders. Family and witnesses dispute this version, and the lack of body camera footage has fueled demands for an independent investigation.

How many people have been killed by ICE in 2026?

At least eight people have died in ICE-related shootings or custody since January 2026, according to The Trace and The Guardian. Nineteen people have been shot by ICE agents since the start of Trump's second term.

Why did ICE suspend traffic stops?

ICE temporarily halted most traffic stops after two fatal shootings in Maine and Texas within a week. President Trump overruled the suspension, calling it a critical enforcement tool.

Is ICE being investigated?

Multiple federal, state, and local agencies are investigating the Maine shooting. Maine's congressional delegation has called for a transparent and independent inquiry.

Sources

Information for this article was sourced from the Associated Press, Bangor Daily News, ABC News Australia, The Guardian, The Trace, and CNN. Read more about Trump's push to resume ICE traffic stops.