A tragic incident unfolded as a man with severe disabilities lost his life subsequent to his father’s detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in October. Wael Tarabishi, 30, passed away on January 23 due to complications related to Pompe disease, a rare genetic disorder leading to muscle weakening. His father, Maher Tarabishi, who had been his primary caregiver, was taken into custody during a routine check-in at the Dallas ICE Field office. The family believes Wael’s health deteriorated significantly due to the stress caused by the situation.
Wael, who required constant care, was hospitalized on November 20 with severe health issues, including sepsis and pneumonia. Despite returning home briefly, he was readmitted in December, following complications with his feeding tube. Tragically, Wael passed away without his father by his side, who had been his devoted caregiver and constant companion.
Maher’s lawyer revealed that Maher’s lawful status in the U.S. was jeopardized after his asylum application was denied in 2006. However, as Wael’s primary caretaker, Maher was allowed to stay in the country. Despite presenting evidence of Wael’s medical needs during his recent ICE check-in, Maher was still detained, causing distress to the family.
The Tarabishi family discovered that Maher’s asylum case had been rejected due to fraudulent legal practices. Efforts are underway to reopen his case through a motion filed with the U.S. Board of Immigration Appeals. The family is urgently seeking Maher’s release to attend Wael’s funeral, dismissing allegations made against him by ICE.
These events come amidst growing concerns over ICE operations, with recent incidents in Minneapolis escalating tensions. The shooting incidents involving ICE agents have sparked outrage across the nation, highlighting the contentious immigration policies in the U.S.