Two undocumented immigrants have been charged in connection with a tragic crash that resulted in the death of a local Illinois county board member and his wife.
According to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Edwin Pacheco-Meza, 34, was allegedly driving under the influence when he caused the crash that claimed the lives of Coles County Board Member Michael Clayton and his wife, Gail Clayton, in Westfield, Illinois.
DHS reported that ammunition, drugs, an extended magazine, and an open container of alcohol were found inside Pacheco-Meza’s car after the crash. Juan Morales-Martinez, an 18-year-old passenger in the car, was also arrested.
Pacheco-Meza is facing charges of reckless homicide and driving under the influence, while Morales-Martinez is charged with drug possession and a weapons offense.
Despite an ICE detainer being lodged, officials did not cooperate with the request due to Illinois’ sanctuary policies.
Fox News Digital reached out to the Clark County Sheriff’s Office for comment, and Morales-Martinez was arrested by federal agents outside the Clark County Jail.
Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin emphasized that the incident was preventable and highlighted the efforts of the Trump administration to enforce immigration laws.
She stated, “Two innocents were killed because this criminal illegal alien chose to drive under the influence. President Trump and Secretary Noem have unleashed ICE and CBP in Illinois to restore law and order and remove criminal illegal aliens from our communities.”
McLaughlin concluded by warning those in the country illegally that breaking laws and harming Americans will result in arrest, removal, and a ban from returning.
