A man hailed for rescuing a 9-year-old girl from a brutal shark attack in Florida is now facing deportation after being detained by immigration authorities.
Luis Alvarez, who was among the first to rush into the water to save young Leah Lendel during the 9 June attack off Boca Grande, was taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) just days later. According to an arrest report obtained by the Fort Myers News-Press, Alvarez was pulled over in the early hours of 14 June for allegedly driving without headlights. He is now being held in a local jail under ICE custody.
The case has sparked outrage and concern as it unfolds against the backdrop of President Donald Trump’s ongoing immigration crackdown. Since returning to the White House in 2025, Trump’s administration has ramped up nationwide enforcement operations, promising to focus on individuals deemed threats to public safety. However, data shows a sharp increase in detentions of people with no criminal history.
Alvarez, originally from Boaco, Nicaragua, has no known criminal record. His only apparent offense is being in the country without legal immigration status — a civil, not criminal, violation under U.S. law.
During the shark attack, Alvarez was among the bystanders who rushed to help. Witnesses say he ran straight into the water without hesitation to rescue Leah, whose hand was nearly severed by the shark. Fellow rescuer Raynel Lugo praised Alvarez’s bravery, telling Fox4 News, “He went deep underwater, not even caring about the shark. He probably faced the shark.”
Alvarez is scheduled to appear before an immigration judge on 9 July. His supporters argue that instead of facing deportation, he should be recognized for his courage and selflessness.
The incident has reignited debate over U.S. immigration policy and whether enforcement actions are unjustly targeting individuals who contribute to their communities — even at great personal risk.
