A devastating tragedy unfolded in New Jersey last week when a mother and her 11-year-old daughter were killed in a horrific DUI crash, allegedly caused by an illegal immigrant with a troubling criminal history. The driver, identified as Luna Perez, reportedly crashed his Dodge Durango head-on into the victims’ Nissan Sentra, leaving the mother dead at the scene and her daughter succumbing to injuries shortly after at the hospital.

Authorities have confirmed that Perez, an illegal alien from Mexico, had a lengthy criminal record, including multiple DUI arrests earlier this year and a domestic violence charge. Shockingly, despite these offenses, he was never deported due to New Jersey’s sanctuary policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement. This incident has ignited outrage, with critics pointing fingers at these policies for allowing dangerous individuals to remain on the streets.

As the community mourns the loss of Maria Cortez and her daughter, loved ones gathered to honor their memory. The Trump administration has condemned the sanctuary policies, emphasizing that they hinder ICE agents from removing criminals like Perez from the country. Following the crash, ICE has lodged a detainer on Perez, initiating deportation proceedings while he remains in custody.

Authorities are awaiting blood test results that could lead to upgraded charges against Perez, who now faces two counts of vehicular homicide and assault by auto. The tragic loss of life has reignited the debate over immigration policies, with calls for reform growing louder in the wake of this preventable disaster. As the investigation continues, the community grapples with the painful reality of a tragedy that should never have happened.