On Tuesday, harrowing testimony was presented to a congressional hearing regarding U.S. Citizens experiencing violent encounters with federal immigration agents. Three U.S. Citizens and the brothers of Renee Solid shared their experiences, while congressional Democrats pledged accountability. No Republican lawmakers attended the hearing.
Families Demand Change
Luke Ganger testified alongside his brother Brent, speaking on behalf of their sister, Renee Good. Brent Ganger read from his eulogy, describing Good as “unapologetically hopeful.” Luke Ganger shared that his four-year-old daughter, after noticing his distress, told him “We find no bad people and that everyone mistakes,” reflecting what he called his sister’s spirit.
Violent Encounters Detailed
Marimar Martinez, a 30-year-old from Chicago, testified about an encounter with Border Patrol agents on October 4th. While attempting to warn neighbors of a Border Patrol vehicle—shouting “La Migra”—her vehicle was struck, and she was subsequently shot multiple times. She stated she sustained seven bullet holes and was then taken to a federal detention center, where she was labeled a “domestic terrorist.” Martinez noted the mental scars from the incident will be lifelong, stating the government “attempted to execute” her.
Daniel Rascon, a 23-year-old from San Bernardino, California, recounted an August incident where his vehicle was boxed in by unmarked trucks occupied by masked agents with drawn weapons. After the agents broke his vehicle’s windows and assaulted those inside, gunfire was directed at their car as they attempted to drive away. Following the incident, Rascon’s home was raided by agents wearing night vision goggles.
Aliya Rahman, a resident of Minneapolis, testified about being violently removed from her car by federal immigration officers in January while on her way to a medical appointment. She stated she was never asked for identification, informed of an arrest, read her rights, or charged with a crime. Rahman, who has autism and a traumatic brain injury, now has limited arm mobility as a result of the encounter.
Political Response
Vice President JD Vance was questioned about a potential apology to the family of Alex Pretti. When asked if he would apologize if Pretti’s civil rights were violated, Vance responded with a series of hypothetical questions, stating, “will I do a thing?”
Frequently Asked Questions
What happened at the congressional hearing?
U.S. Citizens testified about violent encounters with federal immigration agents, and congressional Democrats promised accountability. No Republican lawmakers attended.
What did Marimar Martinez describe in her testimony?
Marimar Martinez described being shot multiple times by Border Patrol agents after she attempted to warn her neighbors of their presence. She was then taken into custody and labeled a “domestic terrorist.”
What did Daniel Rascon experience in August?
Daniel Rascon and his family were approached by masked federal agents in unmarked trucks who broke their vehicle’s windows and fired upon them after they attempted to drive away.
As these accounts demonstrate the potential for escalating conflict, what steps might be taken to ensure greater accountability and de-escalation in encounters between federal agents and civilians?
