WHY ARIZONA (KVOA) – A well respected member of the Tohono O’odham community has been gunned down by Border Patrol agents.
According to a family member, Mattia was shot and killed by Border patrol agents Thursday night. She said Mattia had called Border Patrol. The family is still confused as to what happened that night and they want answers. They are outraged and want people to know what happened to their loved one, Raymond Mattia.
U.S. Border Patrol Shot Tohono O’odham Ceremonial Person 38 Times in his Doorway
It happened in the village known as Menegers Dam, a few miles from the U.S -Mexico border.
“He called to request for assistance because there were multiple illegal immigrants who had trespassed into his yard and he wanted assistance getting them out of his property.”
The family said Mattia went outside when he saw the agents. They claimed he was two feet away from his front door when suddenly shots rang out.
“I had heard all the gunshots like it was just a war. I just went into shock like I couldn’t believe what I was hearing.”
“They told us there was an estimated 38 shots fired at him. You know that’s excessive and we want justice and we want to know what happened and why there were so many Border Patrol out there shooting at him.”
“Raymond was a law abiding citizens, “He was not aggressive kind of man, he was not violent.” She added, “He was an artist, a ceremony person, a traditional hunter, he’s a traditional singer. He’s was always kind to his family and taking care of them however he could.”
Ophelia Rivas, a life long family friend
She along with the others in the community are angry.
The Tohono O’odham Nation released a statement today.
“The Tohono O’odham Police Department (TOPD) and the FBI are investigating an officer involved shooting that took place in the Meneger’s Dam community of the Tohono O’odham Nation the night of Thursday, May 18, 2023. Nation member Raymond Mattia lost his life in the incident. Our hearts go out to his family and all those impacted during this difficult time,” Chairman Ned Norris said.
“As the investigation proceeds, the Nation expects full consideration of all related facts of the incident and an appropriate and expeditious response from relevant public safety agencies.
Because the investigation is ongoing, we will refrain from making further comment at this time.”
We send our condolences to Mattia’s family and friends.
