At just 19 years old, Emerson Colindres was on the cusp of his dream career as a professional soccer player.

But everything changed when he was suddenly deported from the United States back to his homeland, Honduras, in a move that has left his family and community devastated.

Arrested in Front of His Mother During Routine Immigration Check

Emerson’s story took a painful turn on June 4, when he was detained by immigration officers during what should have been a routine check.

His mother, Ada Bell Baquedano Amador, witnessed the arrest firsthand—an experience she describes as heartbreaking.

“He told me they asked him all sorts of questions, like if he knew where he was going and if he had family here.

He didn’t know how to answer,” Ada shared with FOX19 NOW.

Emerson left Honduras at age eight and barely remembers his early years there, making this all the more difficult.

The Pain of Separation Hits Hard

Back in Honduras now, Emerson opened up about the hardest part of the ordeal: being handcuffed and taken away right in front of his mother.

“I told myself I’d never put my mom in a position to see me in handcuffs or jail,” he said.

“When she looked at me, she was lost.

She couldn’t even speak. I’ve never been separated from her before.”

Family’s Long Struggle for Asylum Ends With Final Removal Order

Emerson and his family first arrived in the U.S. in 2014, hoping for asylum.

Unfortunately, their application was denied, and by 2023, they were issued a final removal order.

Missing Loved Ones and Facing an Uncertain Future

Now back in Honduras, Emerson is filled with sadness and longing.

“I miss my mom. I miss my sister. I want to see them. When will that happen?” he asked with a heavy heart.

“It’s really sad, but I have to push through. Still, I just want to be with my family.”

Tragically, his mother and sister have also received deportation orders and are expected to return to Honduras soon, further fracturing the family’s ties across borders.