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South Padre Island Today
By the People, for the People
Texas Lawmaker Demands Public Hearing on ICE Shooting of U.S. Citizen
Ruben Ray Martinez's family seeks answers and accountability after fatal encounter with federal agents
Apr. 12, 2026 at 11:55am
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The fatal shooting of a U.S. citizen by an ICE agent in Texas raises urgent questions about transparency and accountability in law enforcement.South Padre Island TodayA Texas Democratic lawmaker, Ray Lopez, is invoking a state legislative rule to demand a public hearing on the fatal shooting of U.S. citizen Ruben Ray Martinez by an ICE agent almost a year ago in South Padre Island, Texas. The details of the incident were kept under wraps until recently, sparking concerns about transparency and the use of force by federal immigration authorities.
Why it matters
This case raises critical questions about the accountability and transparency of law enforcement, especially federal immigration agents, in incidents involving the use of lethal force against U.S. citizens. It also highlights the politically charged nature of immigration enforcement, particularly in border states like Texas, and the need for a comprehensive review of these practices.
The details
According to an internal ICE report, the incident occurred on March 15, 2025, when ICE agents from Homeland Security Investigations were assisting local police in controlling traffic after a major car accident. A blue Ford approached the area, and its driver, later identified as Martinez, failed to follow instructions and attempted to continue driving. After commands from the agents, the vehicle eventually came to a stop. The agents then surrounded the car and directed the driver to exit, but Martinez "accelerated forward," striking one of the ICE agents, who ended up on the hood of the vehicle. In response, another ICE agent fired multiple rounds through an open side window, fatally wounding Martinez.
- The incident occurred on March 15, 2025.
- The details of the shooting were kept under wraps until recently, nearly a year after the incident.
The players
Ray Lopez
A Texas Democratic lawmaker who serves on the Texas House Committee on Homeland Security and is invoking a state legislative rule to demand a public hearing on the fatal shooting of Ruben Ray Martinez.
Ruben Ray Martinez
A 23-year-old U.S. citizen who was fatally shot by an ICE agent in South Padre Island, Texas, on March 15, 2025.
Rachel Reyes
The mother of Ruben Ray Martinez, who is seeking justice and accountability for her son's death.
Charles M. Stam and Alex Stamm
The attorneys representing Ruben Ray Martinez's family, who are emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation and transparency.
Cole Hefner
The chairman of the Texas House Committee on Homeland Security, who has been formally requested to schedule a public hearing on the incident.
What they’re saying
“When an authority figure decides to take someone's life, it should be a last resort. The information we have doesn't indicate that it was a last resort, and I want answers.”
— Ray Lopez, Texas Democratic Lawmaker
“Since Ruben's death, we've been searching for justice and answers. With the country in crisis, other families are enduring similar pain. I hope the attention on Ruben's death will bring us the justice and clarity we seek.”
— Rachel Reyes, Mother of Ruben Ray Martinez
“Ruben's family has been seeking transparency for almost a year, and we'll continue to do so. It's crucial to understand why HSI was present at a traffic collision and why a federal officer shot and killed a U.S. citizen who was complying with local law enforcement.”
— Charles M. Stam and Alex Stamm, Attorneys for Ruben Ray Martinez's Family
What’s next
The Texas House Committee on Homeland Security, led by Chairman Cole Hefner, is expected to respond to Ray Lopez's request for a public hearing on the incident by the end of business on February 23.
The takeaway
This case highlights the ongoing concerns about the transparency and accountability of federal immigration enforcement, particularly in the use of lethal force against U.S. citizens. The proposed public hearing will be an opportunity to examine these issues and ensure that justice is served for Ruben Ray Martinez and his family.
