A Texas family says Immigration and Customs Enforcement prevented a detained father from attending the funeral of his disabled U.S. citizen son, who died after losing his primary caregiver.
Son Died After Losing Caregiver
Wael Tarabishi, 30, of Arlington, Texas, died Jan. 23 after a lifelong battle with advanced Pompe disease. His father, Maher Tarabishi, was his full-time caregiver and was often described by family as his “arms, legs, and lungs.”
Maher was detained by ICE in October 2025 during a routine annual check-in required under a supervision order that had allowed him to remain in the U.S. legally to care for his son.
Father Denied Permission to Attend Funeral
Following Wael’s death, family members and advocates requested that ICE allow Maher, who was being held at a detention facility in Anson, Texas, to attend his son’s funeral. ICE denied the request, leaving the family to bury Wael without his father present.
Conflicting Claims From ICE and Family
ICE said Maher Tarabishi is a member of an organization the U.S. considers a terrorist group and described him as a “criminal alien.” The family and Maher’s attorney strongly deny those claims, saying his legal team previously challenged them and that no evidence supports the allegations.
Family Speaks Out
Relatives say Wael’s final wish was to see his father one last time. They accuse ICE of causing irreversible harm by separating them during Wael’s final months and say they will continue advocating for Maher’s release.
Supporters have rallied online, arguing the case reflects broader concerns about immigration enforcement and humanitarian exceptions involving families and caregivers.
For more updates on Trump’s immigration enforcement, which has led to numerous deaths, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.