The San Diego Padres’ minor league catching coordinator, Oswaldo Jose Pirela Dominguez, has been detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) while traveling in El Paso, Texas. The 34-year-old Venezuelan national remains in custody at the El Paso Processing Center according to ICE records.

Pirela was reportedly flying home to Phoenix, Arizona, after his work shift when he was apprehended around 5 a.m. on Sunday. Family members confirmed he did not carry his U.S. work permit card at the time of detention. The Padres issued a statement acknowledging the situation but stated they were gathering additional information and would not provide further comment.

Pirela entered the United States legally in 2014 after seeking asylum from persecution under the Venezuelan regime. He has two U.S.-born daughters and lives outside Phoenix, Arizona. His sister Daniela Pirela told NBC News that he “did everything lawfully as the U.S. asks” and “loves this country.”

Oswaldo’s brother Jorge Heli Pirela shared on Instagram that Pirela “was directly affected by persecution from the Venezuelan regime,” emphasizing their family’s journey to seek safety through legal channels. Jorge described his brother as “a devoted father, a dedicated coach, an exceptional worker” who has earned widespread respect in his community and professional life.

Family members have publicly urged U.S. Representative Abraham Hamadeh of Arizona to intervene in Pirela’s case, stating they believe he was targeted due to his active asylum application. Daniela Pirela noted, “They still haven’t told us” why her brother was detained, adding there is “no reason why they detained him.”