Tragic Death of Wael Tarabishi Following Father's Detention by ICE

Wael Tarabishi, a 30-year-old man suffering from Pompe disease, passed away on January 23, 2026, after his primary caregiver and father, Maher Tarabishi, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) on October 28, 2025. Wael's health deteriorated significantly following his father's detention, which his family attributes to the stress of the situation.

Disabled man, 30, dies alone after his solo caregiver dad is detained by ICE

Maher Tarabishi, who immigrated to the United States from Jordan in 1994, was detained during a scheduled check-in at the Dallas ICE Field office. He had been living in the U.S. lawfully until his asylum application was denied in 2006, after which he became Wael's primary caregiver. His detention occurred despite his compliance with ICE regulations, as he had never missed a check-in appointment.

Disabled man, 30, dies alone after his solo caregiver dad is detained by ICE

Following his father's detention, Wael's health rapidly declined. He was hospitalized on November 20, 2025, with sepsis and pneumonia, conditions exacerbated by the absence of his father. The Tarabishi family noted that Maher's daily presence was essential for Wael's well-being. Tragically, Wael passed away without his father by his side, leading to a public outcry from the family regarding the impact of ICE's actions.

Disabled man, 30, dies alone after his solo caregiver dad is detained by ICE

Maher's attorney, Ali Elhorr, stated that Maher had consistently complied with ICE requirements and had brought documentation of Wael's medical needs to his last check-in. The family has since requested Maher's humanitarian release to attend Wael's funeral. They expressed that the stress of separation contributed to Wael's death, with family members asserting, "They may not kill Wael with a bullet, but they killed him inside by taking the only person he asked for."

Disabled man, 30, dies alone after his solo caregiver dad is detained by ICE

The case has drawn significant criticism regarding ICE's treatment of vulnerable individuals. Advocates argue that the detention of caregivers like Maher Tarabishi poses a severe risk to those who rely on them for essential care. The Tarabishi family's situation highlights broader concerns about ICE's enforcement practices, particularly in light of recent violent incidents involving ICE agents.

Disabled man, 30, dies alone after his solo caregiver dad is detained by ICE

While the Tarabishi family has called for Maher's release, there are conflicting reports regarding the status of his asylum case. The family claims that Maher's previous attorney practiced law fraudulently, leading to the denial of his asylum application. This revelation has raised questions about the integrity of the legal process surrounding his detention.

Disabled man, 30, dies alone after his solo caregiver dad is detained by ICE

• "Wael's body could no longer handle the stress." — Tarabishi Family

Disabled man, 30, dies alone after his solo caregiver dad is detained by ICE

• "They may not kill Wael with a bullet, but they killed him inside by taking the only person he asked for." — Shahd Arnaout, Daughter-in-law of Maher Tarabishi

Disabled man, 30, dies alone after his solo caregiver dad is detained by ICE

• "He had check-ins with ICE every year. Never missed a single one." — Ali Elhorr, Attorney for Maher Tarabishi

Disabled man, 30, dies alone after his solo caregiver dad is detained by ICE

The tragic death of Wael Tarabishi underscores the profound implications of immigration enforcement on families and individuals with special needs, raising urgent questions about the policies and practices of ICE.

Disabled man, 30, dies alone after his solo caregiver dad is detained by ICE