Family of Los Angeles man fatally shot by off-duty ICE agent demands answers

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LOS ANGELES — Keith Porter, a 43-year-old Los Angeles father of two, was fatally shot by an off-duty ICE agent on New Year’s Eve. The fatal incident has prompted urgent calls for a full and transparent investigation from his family and attorney.

What happened to Keith Porter?

Authorities say Porter fired celebratory gunshots outside his Northridge apartment before the off-duty federal agent confronted him. The Department of Homeland Security claims Porter pointed a rifle at the agent and ignored commands to drop it. The agent then opened fire, killing him. DHS has not released video or physical evidence to support its account.

Attorney and Family Vehemently Denies Claim

Porter’s family and attorney, Jamal Tooson, disputes the federal narrative. In an interview with Fox 11 Los Angeles, Tooson says no evidence shows Porter fired toward the agent. He also questions why the off-duty officer left his apartment before LAPD arrived.

“Had he just stayed in his apartment for five minutes, Keith would be with us,” Tooson told Fox 11.

LAPD says the shooting remains under investigation, though the department has not issued updates.

Tooson told the outlet the family has not found a witness who heard the agent identify himself. He also says they have seen no shell casings that match the agent’s claim that Porter fired three rounds toward him. “We have questions about whether Keith ever posed a threat,” Tooson said.

DHS maintains the agent acted in self-defense and referred all further questions to LAPD.

Family Remembers Keith Porter as Loving, Joyful, and Deeply Appreciated

Porter’s family describes him as a devoted father, a hard worker, and a source of joy in every room he entered. His mother, Franceola Armstrong, told the outlet her son lifted people up with kindness and gratitude.

“From day one that he was born, I knew he was my joy,” Armstrong said. “He had the biggest heart. He was sympathetic, appreciative, and full of gratitude.”

Loved ones say Porter fired into the air as part of a New Year’s Eve celebration, not as a threat. They believe the off‑duty ICE agent lacked the training for the situation and should have waited for LAPD.

The family supports LAPD’s investigation but insists that if the agent’s account proves false, prosecutors must act. “We are seeking for him to be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” Tooson said.