DHS agent killed US citizen in March last year, records reveal

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by By AP and ReutersFebruary 22, 2026 at 09:38 AM

AI Summary

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In March 2025, a Department of Homeland Security (DHS) agent shot and killed Ruben Ray Martinez, a 23-year-old U.S. citizen, in South Padre Island, Texas. The incident occurred while DHS agents were assisting local police with traffic control after an accident and conducting immigration enforcement. According to records obtained by American Oversight, a nonprofit watchdog group, Martinez allegedly hit a DHS agent with his car, prompting the shooting. Martinez was taken to a hospital in Brownsville, Texas, where he died. The agent who was hit by the car was treated for a knee injury. The released records are part of a Freedom of Information Act lawsuit and reveal that Martinez had no prior criminal record.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Rachel Reyes 30% Alex Pretti 30% Renee Nicole Good 30% South Padre Island 40% Minnesota 40% American Oversight 50% Immigration and Customs Enforcement 60% Texas ×260% Donald Trump ×260% United States ×270% Department of Homeland Security ×380% Ruben Ray Martinez ×690%

Keywords

us citizen killed 90% dhs agent 90% immigration enforcement 80% department of homeland security 70% deportation surge 60% texas shooting 60% ice 50% law enforcement 40%