The Killing of Joan Sebastian Guerrero

Updated Timeline As Of 7.14.2026

Joan Sebastian Guerrero was a 26-year-old Colombian national, a husband, and a father. He lived in Maine, held legal work authorization in the United States, and possessed a valid Social Security number. His death at the hands of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has triggered massive protests across Maine and prompted immediate calls for federal accountability.

Background & Legal Status

Prior to July 2026

Joan Sebastian Guerrero establishes a life in Maine with his wife and 3-year-old daughter. He is documented with a legal work permit, clearing him for employment in the United States.

Surveillance Operation

July 13, 2026 — ~7:00 AM EDT

ICE agents conduct targeted surveillance at a residence in Biddeford, Maine. According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), they are looking for an individual with a final order of removal. Guerrero leaves the residence in his vehicle, reportedly heading to work.

The Fatal Encounter

July 13, 2026 — 7:17 AM EDT

At the intersection of Pool Street and Hill Street in Biddeford, ICE agents use an SUV to ram the passenger side of Guerrero’s sedan. Agents surround the vehicle with weapons drawn. DHS claims Guerrero attempted to flee toward an officer, prompting an agent to open fire out of fear for “public safety.” Witness reports indicate the shooting occurred in front of his 3-year-old daughter, who was still in her pajamas.

Immediate Aftermath

July 13, 2026 — Minutes Later

A bystander filming from a nearby porch captures footage of federal agents pulling Guerrero’s limp body from the vehicle and shackling his wrists. The ICE officers involved are not wearing body-worn cameras.

Community Protests Erupt

July 13, 2026 — 12:00 PM EDT

The local advocacy group Biddeford Saco for Racial Justice organizes an immediate response. Hundreds of demonstrators gather in Biddeford. Additional protests take place outside of Bangor City Hall and at Senator Susan Collins’ office, with crowds chanting for transparency and an end to ICE operations in the state.

Target Identity Confirmed

July 13, 2026 — Afternoon

Senator Angus King’s office releases a statement revealing that Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin confirmed Guerrero was not the intended target of the ICE warrant.

Political Backlash

July 13, 2026 — Evening

Maine’s political leaders issue strong condemnations. Governor Janet Mills describes the operation as “reckless and haphazard.” Senator Susan Collins calls for a “full and impartial investigation,” noting that the FBI is stepping in to investigate alongside Maine State Police.

Ongoing Investigations & Vigils

July 14, 2026 (Present)

The investigations remain active today. Candlelight vigils are organized to mourn Guerrero, while immigrant rights organizations, including the Maine Immigrants’ Rights Coalition, intensify their demands for systemic reform, pointing out the lack of guardrails, vetting, and body cameras in recent ICE deployments.

Guerrero’s death marks the fourth fatal shooting involving federal immigration agents this year, occurring less than a week after the high-profile ICE killing of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo in Houston, Texas.