Father Seeks Answers from Illinois Governor Following Daughter’s Death
Joe Abraham is looking for answers from Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker regarding the tragic death of his daughter, Katie, but he’s not holding his breath for a response anytime soon. Last year, Katie, just 20 years old, was killed in a car accident involving a drunk driver, an illegal immigrant named Julio Cucurbor. Cucurbor, originally from Guatemala and previously deported, managed to return to Illinois.
Pritzker recently labeled the shooting death of Renee Nicole Good by an ICE officer in Minneapolis a “tragedy,” and he called for the Department of Homeland Security Secretary to resign or be impeached. However, Abraham pointed out that Pritzker never reached out to him following his daughter’s death, and he feels that Pritzker treated him with blatant disregard.
“He was right here in our community, without any checks or tests,” Abraham remarked, expressing his frustration. “He couldn’t read or write and didn’t speak English. This is who Governor Pritzker is really backing.” There’s a sense of betrayal when Abraham reflects on Pritzker’s response—or lack thereof. “It feels like there’s been nothing but silence and indifference from him.”
As for Cucurbor, he was ultimately sentenced to 30 years in prison after accepting a plea deal. When arrested, he had a fake ID and Social Security card and pleaded guilty to charges including aggravated DUI resulting in death.
Abraham admitted he was shocked to see Pritzker publicly comment on the recent shooting, which amplified his feeling of neglect regarding his own loss. “I didn’t receive any sympathy from him. It’s like Katie was completely overlooked,” he said. “You’d think he would want to address the impact of his policies on families like mine, but there was just nothing.”
During a legislative hearing, Abraham shared that he was in the same room as Pritzker but was met with silence. “I was really expecting a different kind of response, but it was completely ignored,” he noted.
Reflecting on that moment, he explained to his wife, “They don’t want anything to do with us. This doesn’t align with their agenda.” That was when he decided it was crucial to start voicing his concerns publicly.
In light of the situation, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security has initiated Operation Midway Blitz, aimed at honoring Katie and increasing resources in Chicago. Meanwhile, Abraham wrote a letter to Pritzker asking crucial questions about how Cucurbor obtained a driver’s license and a vehicle, among other concerns.
Abraham expressed little hope for a response from the governor, suggesting Pritzker has no real interest in the people of Illinois, especially those affected by such tragedies. “He doesn’t seem compassionate at all,” Abraham remarked. “I just want answers.”
Pritzker’s office acknowledged receiving Abraham’s letter but didn’t provide any statements addressing his criticisms, emphasizing the importance of understanding Katie’s story. However, Abraham insists that just because Katie’s mother disagrees with the current situation, it doesn’t detract from his right to seek the truth. “She’s my daughter too,” he emphasized.
