FBI warrant alleges meth-like substance found in van of man killed by ICE agent
A federal search warrant filed on July 14 says FBI agents observed bags of a white crystal-like material, described as consistent with methamphetamine, inside Lorenzo Salgado Araujo’s work van, which was the site of a July 7 shooting by an ICE officer.
Federal investigators filed a search warrant on July 14 indicating that several plastic bags containing a white crystal-like substance were observed inside the work van of Lorenzo Salgado Araujo, who was shot and killed by an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agent on July 7 in Houston’s Magnolia Park neighborhood. The affidavit states the bags were located on the dashboard and passenger-side floorboard and that the appearance of the material was consistent with methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, based on the investigator’s training and experience.
The warrant sought authorization to search the vehicle for potential federal drug offenses, including possession with intent to distribute and simple possession. While the affidavit notes that agents believed they already had authority under the automobile exception to the Fourth Amendment, the FBI requested the warrant “out of an abundance of caution” to ensure compliance with legal standards.
According to the filing, ICE agents attempted to stop the vehicle around 6:45 a.m., after the driver allegedly refused to comply and drove over a median. Agents later located the van on Canal Street and made another stop attempt, during which an ICE officer shot Salgado Araujo, resulting in his death. The Department of Homeland Security has said the agent acted in self-defense, a claim disputed by three other occupants who say the agent approached from the passenger side and opened fire without being in danger.
The Harris County District Attorney’s Office, in partnership with the City of Houston, is conducting an independent investigation. District Attorney Sean Teare has asked the public to provide any photos, video or other evidence related to the incident. U.S. Representative Sylvia Garcia has reported that ICE vehicles were not equipped with dash cameras and that the three occupants’ accounts differ from federal statements. The FBI’s warrant does not determine whether a crime occurred, nor does it confirm the substance’s composition through laboratory testing.