HUMSI — Human Security Initiative

Human Impact Project

A living database documenting reported immigration enforcement incidents and their human impact.

18-year-old Wendy Domingo caring for four siblings after parents detained by ICE in Florida

Aug 14, 2026 · FL, Guatemala

18-year-old Wendy Domingo caring for four siblings after parents detained by ICE in Florida

Wendy Domingo, 18, was driving her family home from church on August 9, 2026—one day after her 18th birthday—when Border Patrol agents stopped their vehicle and detained both her parents, who are from Guatemala. The agents checked the vehicle's license plate registered to her father and took both parents into custody without arranging care for Wendy and her four younger siblings, ages 3, 11, 14, and 16. Wendy became the sole provider for her family, taking on two jobs to support her household while managing expenses and bills. She has had to pause her education due to the sudden responsibilities. Her mother was ordered deported by an immigration judge, and the Department of Homeland Security issued a statement about her father's background, though Wendy continues caring for her siblings.

Timeline

Aug 14, 2026Story of Wendy's situation documented; she continues as sole provider while having paused her education
Aug 12, 2026Wendy takes on two jobs to support household while caring for siblings and managing bills
Aug 9, 2026Border Patrol agents stop vehicle driven by Wendy and detain both parents after checking license plate; Wendy becomes sole provider for four younger siblings
Aug 8, 2026Wendy Domingo turns 18

Sources

Related incidents