ICE Officer Who Shot Colombian Man Had History of Mental Health Struggles, Family Says

David Brouillette, an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officer who shot and killed 25-year-old Colombian national Johan Sebastián Durán Guerrero in Biddeford, Maine, on July 13, 2026, has a documented history of mental health challenges and violent behavior, according to relatives and court records.

Shooting Details and Official Response

Durán Guerrero was shot while in his car near his home in Biddeford. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) stated that the vehicle attempted to flee the scene, prompting the officer to discharge his weapon. However, Brouillette did not respond to requests for comment. ICE spokesperson Lauren Bis confirmed the officer had nearly a decade of federal law enforcement experience but declined to confirm his identity, citing policies against disclosing details about law enforcement personnel.

Family Accounts of Violent Past

Relatives described Brouillette as having a long history of mental health struggles and violent behavior. His ex-wife, Ashley Brouillette, said he physically abused her during their marriage, including an incident where he threw boiling water at her while she held their child. Court records from the Augusta District Court show allegations of abuse by his second ex-wife, including claims that Brouillette tackled a teenage daughter and smeared spaghetti in her hair. A relative described him as “extremely mentally ill,” citing a childhood diagnosis of severe bipolar disorder and attention deficit disorder, as well as two suicide attempts at age 12.

Military Service and Career Path

Brouillette enlisted in the Maine Army National Guard in 2007, later joining the regular Army and deploying to Afghanistan from 2012 to 2013.

Vetting Concerns and Immigration Crackdown

Brouillette’s hiring by ICE has intensified scrutiny of DHS’s recruitment practices, particularly during President Donald Trump’s immigration enforcement efforts. His relatives argued he should never have been granted a badge, citing his mental health history.

Potential Next Steps