HUMSI — Human Security Initiative

Human Impact Project

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

Mobile mechanic detained after traffic stop, deported to Mexico after 26 years in U.S.

May 22, 2026 · Florissant, MO, Mexico

Mobile mechanic detained after traffic stop, deported to Mexico after 26 years in U.S.

Victor López Delara, a 29-year-old mobile mechanic who immigrated to the U.S. at age 4 and lived in Florissant, Missouri for 26 years, was detained by ICE in February 2026 after an O'Fallon police officer pulled him over for not having a front license plate. During the traffic stop, police discovered an active ICE detainer and transferred him to ICE custody. López Delara had no criminal history aside from a 2015 speeding ticket, was employed as a mobile mechanic, owned a small business, and had two young daughters. He qualified for DACA but was unable to submit an application due to financial constraints and lack of a high school diploma. His petition to cancel deportation was denied by a judge who determined his children could adapt to relocation. López Delara was deported to Mexico, with his fiancée and children planning to follow.

Timeline

May 22, 2026López Delara deported to Mexico after 26 years in U.S.; family prepared to relocate
Mar 2, 2026Deportation hearing held; judge denied petition to cancel deportation, citing that López Delara's children could adapt to relocation
Feb 21, 2026López Delara held in ICE custody pending deportation proceedings
Feb 19, 2026López Delara transferred to ICE custody after police discovered active ICE detainer
Feb 18, 2026Victor López Delara detained by ICE after O'Fallon police traffic stop for missing front license plate; deportation hearing scheduled for March 2nd

Sources

More incidents in Missouri