ICE Deportation of Murder Suspects from Houston
HOUSTON – The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency deported two individuals wanted for murder in Mexico on July 21, 2026. This action followed a targeted immigration operation conducted by the Houston field office.
Details of the Deportation
Agustín Morales Renteria and Juan Becerra Ruiz, both 24, were transferred from the Montgomery Processing Center in Conroe, Texas, to the Juarez Lincoln Bridge in Laredo, Texas. Upon arrival, they were handed over to Mexican authorities. Morales Renteria is sought in Mexico for aggravated murder, while Becerra Ruiz faces charges of intentional homicide in the Queretaro region.
Law Enforcement’s Commitment to Public Safety
Gabriel Martinez, Acting Director of the Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) at ICE’s Houston Field Office, made a statement emphasizing the agency’s ongoing efforts to address criminal activities perpetrated by undocumented individuals. He asserted, “Southeast Texas will never be a safe haven for dangerous criminal illegal aliens like these two.” He criticized those spreading misinformation about immigration enforcement.
Coordinated Enforcement Actions
Martinez further elaborated on the collaboration with law enforcement partners, underscoring the commitment to uphold immigration laws without bias. He noted, “Our law enforcement personnel are dedicated to actions that enhance public safety and national security, ensuring that fugitives are brought to justice for their crimes.” This operation aimed to provide closure for the victims’ families impacted by these alleged offenses.
Criminal Histories of Morales Renteria
Morales Renteria first entered the United States illegally on or about September 21, 2021, but was promptly deported under COVID-19 health protocols the same day. An arrest warrant for aggravated murder was issued by Mexico’s Regional Attorney General’s Office on October 19, 2021. He reportedly reentered the U.S. illegally on October 15, 2021.
Prior Detentions and Convictions
On December 4, 2024, ICE encountered Morales Renteria after he was arrested in Jackson County, Missouri, for tampering with a motor vehicle and felony possession of a controlled substance. At that time, no action was taken due to the prevailing immigration priorities under the Biden administration. He later faced conviction for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm on November 4, 2025, resulting in an 18-month federal prison sentence. Following his release from prison on July 2, 2026, he was taken into ICE custody and deported on July 21.
The Case of Juan Becerra Ruiz
Becerra Ruiz entered the United States illegally on an unspecified date and location. In Queretaro, Mexico, an arrest warrant for intentional homicide was issued on October 21, 2022. In May 2026, U.S. Border Patrol received notice of Becerra Ruiz’s location in the Houston area, leading to his detention.
Timeline of Becerra Ruiz’s Arrest and Deportation
Border Patrol agents apprehended Becerra Ruiz during a traffic stop in Spring, Texas, on June 4, 2026, subsequently transferring him to ICE custody. An immigration judge ordered his deportation to Mexico on June 30, and this order was executed on July 21, 2026.
