ICE Detention and Death of Wael Tarabishi

A Routine Check-In Ends in Detention

According to reports, Maher Tarabishi, a 62-year-old Texas resident and immigrant, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in October 2025 during what was supposed to be a routine check-in. For years, Tarabishi had dutifully attended these scheduled appointments, which are required by authorities to ensure compliance while immigration cases are processed.

On this occasion, however, Tarabishi was unexpectedly taken into custody as he was leaving the ICE field office in a Dallas suburb. His family, who waited for hours in the parking lot, was shocked to learn he would not be coming home. Relatives emphasize that Maher has no criminal record and has lived in the United States for decades, contributing to his community and following all legal procedures.

The precise reasons for the detention remain undisclosed by ICE, citing privacy regulations. A spokesperson stated that custody determinations are made on a "case-by-case basis," taking into account humanitarian factors. However, the sudden move left a vulnerable family without its head and a critically ill son without his caregiver.

Father and Son: A Bond of Care and Love

The detention of Maher Tarabishi had immediate and devastating consequences for his 30-year-old son, Wael Tarabishi. Wael suffered from Pompe disease, a rare genetic disorder (glycogen storage disease type II) that causes harmful glycogen buildup, leading to progressive muscle failure and respiratory issues.

Wael’s condition required around-the-clock assistance. He relied on his father for mobility, bathing, dressing, and managing complex medical equipment for breathing support. Maher was not just a father; he was Wael's sole caregiver and fiercest advocate.

Family friends and advocates have taken to social media to highlight that Maher was here legally and did "everything right," yet he was separated from a son whose life depended on him. The case has sparked a viral movement calling for national attention to the human cost of such enforcement actions.

Wael’s Health Crisis and Tragic Death

In the months following the separation, Wael’s health declined rapidly. Without his father’s specialized care and the emotional bond they shared, Wael struggled to maintain his health regimen. Medical experts note that for patients with Pompe disease, stress and disruptions in care can exacerbate symptoms significantly.

Wael was hospitalized in early January 2026 as complications escalated. Despite desperate pleas from the family for ICE to release Maher on humanitarian grounds—even temporarily—the requests went unanswered.

On January 23, 2026, Wael Tarabishi passed away in a Dallas-area hospital. Maher learned of his son’s death while inside an ICE detention facility. Wael’s funeral was held on January 28, but Maher was not permitted to attend, leaving him to mourn alone behind bars.

Family Pleads for Maher Tarabishi’s Release

The Tarabishi family is now publicly pleading for Maher’s release so he can mourn with his loved ones. At a recent press conference, Wael’s sister tearfully stated, "Our father has always been there for Wael. They took him away, and now it’s too late. We just want him home so we can grieve together."

The family’s legal team has filed an emergency request for humanitarian parole. They argue that Maher poses no flight risk and that his history of compliance proves he is not a danger to the community. "This is exactly the kind of case that cries out for compassion," his attorney stated.

As of now, ICE has not announced a decision regarding his release.

Criticism of ICE’s Actions and Policy Questions

The tragedy has sparked outrage among immigration and disability rights advocates. Groups like the Texas Immigrant Rights Coalition argue that detaining a sole caregiver for a person with a severe disability is a failure of humanitarian policy.

Social media campaigns using hashtags like #FreeMaher and #JusticeForWael continue to grow. Critics point out that Maher does not fit the "criminal alien" rhetoric often used to justify strict enforcement. Data from Syracuse University’s TRAC indicates that a significant portion of ICE detainees have no criminal convictions, raising questions about the allocation of enforcement resources.

While 2021 DHS guidelines suggested prioritizing those who pose threats to national security, the implementation of these priorities remains inconsistent, leaving many families in legal limbo.

A Community Rallies and Awaits Action

The North Texas community has organized vigils and petitions to support the Tarabishi family. Candlelight vigils have been held outside the detention center, with community members chanting, "Let Maher Mourn."

Local officials, including Dallas-area representatives, have expressed concern and reached out to federal authorities to request a review of the case. They argue that this situation demonstrates a dire need for humane immigration policies that prioritize family unity in the face of critical illness.

Maher Tarabishi remains in detention, and his family continues to navigate their grief while fighting for his freedom. The outcome of this case is seen by many as a litmus test for compassion in the American immigration system.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Who are Maher Tarabishi and Wael Tarabishi?
A: Maher Tarabishi is a 62-year-old longtime U.S. resident with no criminal record who was detained by ICE. Wael Tarabishi was his 30-year-old son who suffered from Pompe disease and relied on Maher for daily care.

Q: What is Pompe disease?
A: It is a rare genetic disorder caused by an enzyme deficiency that leads to muscle weakness and respiratory issues. Wael’s case was severe, requiring a ventilator and constant assistance.

Q: Why was Maher Tarabishi checking in with ICE?
A: Routine check-ins are standard for immigrants with pending cases or orders of supervision to ensure they are complying with residence and employment rules.

Q: What can be done to help?
A: Advocates suggest contacting elected representatives and signing petitions calling for humanitarian parole for Maher Tarabishi.

Additional Resources & References

• National Institute of Neurological Disorders: Information on Pompe Disease
• TRAC Immigration: Detention Data and Statistics
• U.S. ICE: Form I-246, Stay of Removal Information