New Jersey Governor Avoids Questions on School Bus Attack Involving Illegal Immigrant
Mikie Sherrill, New Jersey’s newly inaugurated Democratic governor, has sidestepped inquiries from Fox News Digital concerning an incident where an undocumented individual reportedly hurled a rock at a school bus, leading to a serious injury for an 8-year-old girl.
Sherrill, who assumed office on January 20 and advocated for sanctuary policies during her campaign, chose not to comment on the attack or the child’s condition. Instead, her office directed queries to Acting Attorney General Jennifer Davenport’s office.
A spokesperson from Davenport’s office informed Fox News Digital that, legally speaking, nothing prevents New Jersey law enforcement from working with federal immigration officials to deport Hernando Garcia-Morales, the individual involved.
While the spokesperson did not address the child’s injuries, they emphasized, “Our office’s top priority is to keep New Jersey residents safe.”
Outrage Following Deaths Linked to Illegal Immigration
Garcia-Morales, a 40-year-old undocumented Mexican national, is reported to have an extensive criminal background, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The agency labeled him a “monster” and stated that he entered the U.S. at an unspecified time and place.
Authorities say that Garcia-Morales threw a large rock at a school bus traveling on the New Jersey Turnpike in Teaneck, resulting in a shattered window and injuries to a third-grade student. The girl required surgery for a fractured skull but is now recovering at home.
Reportedly, the bus was returning to Yeshivat Noam, a Jewish school, from a field trip when the incident occurred. Local reports also noted that Garcia-Morales is suspected of several similar attacks and has a criminal history spanning back to 2025, including charges of aggravated assault and criminal mischief.
Government Response and Public Safety Concerns
Garcia-Morales was taken into custody on January 9 due to charges of aggravated assault, resisting arrest, and possession of a weapon. He is currently held at Bergen County Jail.
Tricia McLaughlin, DHS Assistant Secretary, condemned the attack, labeling it “evil and heinous,” and criticized New Jersey’s sanctuary policies, suggesting that such a situation should never have occurred in the first place. She expressed hope that local officials would cooperate in keeping him off the streets.
As tensions escalate, the Bergen County Sheriff’s Office has not responded to requests for clarification on whether they would comply with ICE’s detainment orders.
This situation unfolds amid increasing opposition faced by DHS and ICE in various states, particularly as sanctuary city policies are scrutinized more closely. Local authorities have been accused of obstructing federal immigration law enforcement, leading to significant public discourse on the balance between immigrant rights and community safety.
