HOUSTON, TX – A man from El Salvador who entered the country without authorization was arrested after becoming stuck on a business sign while fleeing from ICE officers on Oct. 27.
ICE identified the man as Marlon Odir Gomez Hernandez, 29, who attempted to escape through a washateria ceiling before climbing onto the exterior sign.
Officers took him into custody after he remained trapped on the structure and unable to descend on his own.
Key Points
- ICE arrested Marlon Odir Gomez Hernandez after he became stuck on a business sign while fleeing
- Gomez is a 29-year-old noncitizen from El Salvador and is suspected of MS-13 gang affiliation
- The encounter occurred during a targeted enforcement operation in the Houston area
ICE stated that Gomez was previously arrested in El Salvador on Jan. 26, 2022, along with six other individuals suspected of MS-13 involvement, on charges of aggravated extortion.
He entered the United States on an unknown date and location without inspection according to ICE.
During the Oct. 27 operation, officers said Gomez immediately fled, running into a washateria, climbing through ceiling panels to reach the roof, and then descending onto the sign, where he became stuck. <h2>Details of the attempted escape</h2>
ICE reported that officers maintained a perimeter as Gomez remained suspended on the structure, eventually taking him into custody once he could be safely removed.
The agency said the incident unfolded during a targeted enforcement action focusing on individuals with prior arrests or suspected gang ties.
Field Office Director Bret Bradford stated that the flight attempt created risk for people inside the business and nearby. <h2>Background and arrest context</h2>
ICE said Gomez’s prior arrest in El Salvador led agents to identify him as a subject for enforcement during operations in the Houston region.
He was transported to ICE custody following the encounter and is pending further immigration proceedings.
No injuries were reported during the arrest.
