Attorney Contends Substance in Houston ICE Incident Was Salt, Not Drugs

A legal representative for the brother of a man killed in a confrontation with federal agents in Houston has challenged official accounts regarding the nature of a substance found at the scene. The attorney claims that bags recovered after the incident contained salt, rather than controlled substances as suggested by authorities. According to The New York Times, federal investigators involved in the case initially characterized the material as a "crystal-like" substance, noting its resemblance to methamphetamine. This discovery followed a shooting involving Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents that resulted in a fatality. The incident took place on July 14, 2026, when ICE agents, accompanied by local law enforcement, were executing an arrest warrant for a suspect, Eliud Montoya, at a Houston residence. The warrant was reportedly connected to a federal drug trafficking investigation. While attempting to apprehend Montoya, agents encountered another individual, Eliud’s brother, Gilberto Montoya, who allegedly displayed a firearm. During the ensuing struggle, an ICE agent discharged their weapon, striking and fatally wounding Gilberto Montoya. Federal agents reported recovering what they described as a crystal-like substance from the premises, which they believed to be methamphetamine, consistent with their ongoing investigation into drug trafficking. However, the attorney now representing Eliud Montoya, Samuel Louis, has presented an alternative explanation. Louis contends that the bags did not contain illicit drugs but were filled with salt. He has also indicated that other items seized during the search were common household products. The lawyer’s assertion directly contradicts the preliminary findings reported by federal law enforcement agencies. The New York Times indicated that the FBI has since taken over the investigation into the shooting itself, which is standard procedure for incidents involving federal agents. This parallel inquiry will examine the circumstances surrounding the use of force, while the original drug trafficking investigation continues. This discrepancy over the substance's identity introduces a new dimension to the ongoing legal and criminal proceedings. The outcome of forensic testing on the substance will be crucial in determining the veracity of both claims and could significantly impact the broader investigation and any potential charges.