An 18-year-old Massachusetts high school student, described by his volleyball coach as an "exceptional citizen" who "makes other people smile," was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials on Saturday morning.
The news has left the Milford community feeling "helpless," according to the teen's volleyball coach.
Stream NBC10 Boston news for free, 24/7, wherever you are.
WATCH HEREThe student, a junior who excels in both sports and music at Milford High School, was on his way to volleyball practice with his teammates when their car was pulled over.
Andrew Mainini, the school's boy's volleyball coach, said he received a text sometime before 8:30 a.m. from a student who witnessed the detention. According to the coach, ICE agents released two other students who were in the car, stating they were minors.
Get updates on what's happening in Boston to your inbox with our News Headlines newsletter.
SIGN UP "I was sitting there thinking, 'This can't be happening,'" Mainini said. "I'm a person who watches a decent amount of news and it's one thing to see things happening in the world. It's another to have them directly impact the people you work with and care for on a daily basis."
Milford Police Chief Robert Tusino confirmed over the phone Saturday night that he is aware of the teen's detention by immigration officials. He said he is looking into the matter, but his department was not involved in the operation.
Milford Superintendent Kevin McIntyre confirmed in a statement to NBC10 Boston on Sunday that an 18-year-old high school student was detained by ICE agents off campus this weekend.
According to the superintendent, a number of parents have been detained by ICE in recent weeks, as well.
"We are all distraught by this news," McIntyre said, adding that Milford Public Schools plays no part in immigration enforcement and supports all students and their families, including those who are immigrants.
"They are members of the community, students in our classrooms, athletes that compete representing Milford, musicians, artists, friends and neighbors," the superintendent continued. "We will do everything in our power to support our students and families during these difficult times."
Attempts to reach ICE officials for comment have been unsuccessful. In response to the detention, a peaceful protest is planned for noon Sunday at Town Hall.
