HUMSI — Human Security Initiative

Human Impact Project

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

Salvadoran man arrested by ICE in Chelsea, Massachusetts amid homicide extradition case

Sep 2, 2026·Location: Chelsea, MA

Country of origin: El Salvador

Salvadoran man arrested by ICE in Chelsea, Massachusetts amid homicide extradition case
Photo via ice.gov

ICE Boston arrested Leonel Santos-Diaz, a twice-deported migrant from El Salvador, during targeted immigration enforcement operations in Chelsea, Massachusetts. ICE alleged he is wanted in El Salvador on charges including aggravated homicide, human trafficking, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest, and is a suspect in an aggravated robbery investigation there. Authorities said he illegally entered the U.S. to evade prosecution. An ICE official criticized Massachusetts' 'Protect Act' sanctuary law for allegedly shielding him from arrest and deportation.

Suggest a correction, comment, or update

Sources

More incidents in Massachusetts