In late February 2026, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detained the Gámez-Cuéllar family, consisting of two teen brothers and their parents, during a regular immigration check-in in South Texas. They arrived in the United States seeking asylum in 2023 after fleeing cartel violence in Mexico. The family’s situation has since drawn bipartisan criticism as local lawmakers and public officials expressed their support, emphasizing that the family complied with immigration protocols. The family members are prominent figures in their community and include Antonio Gámez-Cuéllar, 18, and Joshua, 14, who play music in the McAllen High School Mariachi Oro band, known for its accolades and performances at prestigious venues. Despite attending all scheduled hearings and check-ins, the family found themselves detained, resulting in a separation between Antonio and his younger brothers and parents.