A tragic incident occurred as a man with severe disabilities passed away following his father’s detention by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in October. The man, Wael Tarabishi, 30, succumbed to complications related to Pompe disease, a genetic disorder causing muscle weakness. His father, Maher Tarabishi, who had been his primary caregiver, was detained during a routine check-in at the Dallas ICE Field office and taken into custody at the Blubonnet Detention Facility. Wael’s health deteriorated rapidly thereafter due to the stress of the situation, leading to his passing.
After being hospitalized with sepsis and pneumonia, Wael’s condition worsened, and he eventually passed away without his father by his side. Maher’s legal situation, stemming from a denied asylum application, became a critical factor in the family’s plight. Despite Maher’s diligent compliance with ICE check-ins, he was detained, leaving Wael without his essential caregiver.
Efforts are now underway to reopen Maher’s immigration case, as it was revealed that his original asylum application was based on fraudulent legal representation. The family is seeking Maher’s release for his son’s funeral, disputing allegations against him by ICE. This incident has sparked broader concerns over ICE’s actions, particularly in the wake of recent fatal encounters involving agents in Minneapolis, raising tensions across the country.