Vigil Held for Keith Porter, Killed by Off-Duty ICE Agent in Northridge
On Saturday night, a candlelight vigil was held in Carson, California, to honor Keith Porter Jr., who was killed by an off-duty ICE agent in Northridge on New Year’s Eve. The gathering attracted family, friends, and civil rights advocates who demanded transparency in the ongoing investigation into his death.
Vigil for Keith Porter Jr.
Porter’s mother, Franceola Armstrong, expressed profound grief at the vigil, where attendees remembered the 43-year-old father of two. This event was the second memorial held for Porter within a week, reflecting the community’s desire for accountability and justice.
Details Surrounding the Incident
- Date of Incident: New Year’s Eve
- Location: Northridge, California
- Main Parties Involved: Keith Porter Jr. and an off-duty ICE agent
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the off-duty agent heard gunfire near his apartment and chose to investigate. When the agent confronted Porter, he was reportedly holding a long rifle. Advocates have stated that Porter was firing his weapon into the air as part of New Year’s celebrations, a tradition criticized by law enforcement.
Community Responses
Najee Ali, director of Project Islamic Hope, highlighted that celebratory gunfire is an American tradition, despite its illegality. Other attendees, like 80-year-old Judy Vaughan, supported this perspective, recalling the practice from her youth.
According to DHS, the off-duty agent commanded Porter to drop the weapon. When he allegedly failed to comply, the agent fired his service weapon. The agency claims Porter discharged three rounds before his death. Attendees at the vigil argued that the agent was untrained for such an encounter and should have contacted the police instead of taking action.
Call for Justice
During a recent Los Angeles City Council meeting, Councilwoman Eunisses Hernandez introduced Porter’s mother, who vividly described her son’s character and the tragic loss to their family. She shared her heartbreak, wishing for one last moment with her son.
As investigations continue, those who attended the vigil are pushing for the off-duty ICE agent to be publicly identified and prosecuted. Porter’s sister, Chanita Fata, expressed the deep pain felt by the family and the community, insisting on recognizing Porter’s life and legacy.
Organizers of the vigil plan to attend the upcoming Los Angeles Police Commission meeting, advocating for a transparent investigation. They also noted the recent tragic shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent in Minnesota, underscoring the urgency of their calls for reform.
