Charges Filed After Fatal Crash in Illinois

Two undocumented immigrants have been charged in connection with a tragic accident that resulted in the deaths of an Illinois county commissioner and his wife.

Edwin Pacheco-Meza, aged 34, is alleged to have been driving under the influence when he caused the crash that killed Coles County Commissioner Michael Clayton and his wife, Gail Clayton, in Westfield, Illinois, as per the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Authorities reported that Pacheco-Meza’s vehicle contained open containers of alcohol, ammunition, extended gun magazines, and drugs, all of which were discovered at the scene.

Alongside Pacheco-Meza, Juan Morales-Martinez, an 18-year-old passenger in the car, was also arrested.

Pacheco-Meza faces charges of reckless homicide and DUI, while Morales-Martinez is charged with drug possession and weapon-related offenses.

Following their arrest at the Clark County Jail, DHS filed a complaint regarding ICE detainers, but the response was hindered by Illinois’ custody policies, which limit cooperation.

Additionally, federal agents arrested Morales-Martinez outside the jail. He entered the U.S. illegally in December 2023 but had been released under the Biden administration. Details about Pacheco-Meza’s arrival in the U.S. remain unclear, according to DHS.

Assistant Secretary of State Tricia McLaughlin remarked that this incident could have been avoided, stating, “Two innocent people were killed because this criminal illegal alien chose to drink and drive.”

She added, “President Trump and Secretary Noem activated ICE and CBP in Illinois to restore law and order and remove criminal illegal aliens from our communities. Anyone who thinks they can walk around freely is in for a rude awakening. If you are in our country illegally and break our laws, we will find you, arrest you, and deport you. You will never be able to return.”