A tragic incident that occurred in California has once again called into question the practices of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). On June 11, 2025, Jesus Gonzalez, a 33-year-old immigrant from Veracruz, Mexico, lost his left arm after being hit by a train while trying to escape from immigration agents.
Jesus Gonzalez, who was waiting for the bus after leaving his day as a welder, was approached by ICE agents near a 7-Eleven. Upon seeing the patrol cars, he panicked and ran aimlessly until he crossed the railroad tracks. It was at that moment that he was brutally struck by a moving locomotive. From a hospital gurney, Jesus recounted, “They ran me over. I got to the train tracks and the train hit me.” Despite the severity of the blow, he managed to get up and try to move forward, but the officers did not assist him, he reported. A passerby was the one who called 911, saving his life.
Critical condition and abandonment
After the impact, Jesús González underwent two emergency surgeries and doctors do not rule out a third.
His sister, Rubi González, has stated that the wound is still open and that it will probably be necessary to remove more tissue in order to close it.
In addition, Jesús does not have health insurance, which makes it difficult for him to access a dignified recovery.
They chased me. I got to the train tracks, and the train hit me
His family has started a GoFundMe campaign to raise funds.
This was in order to cover hospital expenses and to purchase a prosthesis, since his arm was completely amputated from the shoulder.
The local migrant community has begun to mobilize to provide financial and emotional support.
Case reopens debate
Buzzy
This has raised alarms about the treatment of immigrants who have not yet committed crimes and who, like Jesús González, are only trying to work and survive.
Organizations such as Human Rights Watch and the ACLU have previously denounced that ICE operations are often carried out without clear protocols or adequate judicial oversight.
In 2025, multiple reports have pointed to an increase in detentions of immigrants without criminal records.
Especially in states such as California, Texas and Florida.
Immigration lawyers and human rights advocates believe that this case may mark a turning point in the public perception of ICE’s actions.
Recommendations for immigrants facing immigration operations
Do not run or resist during an operation
Demand the presence of a lawyer or remain silent
Carry copies of valid immigration documentation
Inform family members of your whereabouts on a regular basis
For more information, visit QuéOnnda.com.
