DHS Critiques Newsom Following Tragic Incident Involving Undocumented Immigrant

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has taken aim at California Governor Gavin Newsom after an undocumented immigrant was implicated in the Thanksgiving Day death of an 11-year-old boy.

According to police reports, Hector Balderas-Aherol struck Aiden Antonio Torres Depas as the boy left his home in Escondido to get a soccer ball shortly before Thanksgiving. Tragically, Aiden passed away the following morning.

Authorities indicated that Balderas-Aherol did not remain at the scene and fled after the incident. He was subsequently apprehended and charged with hit and run.

This 44-year-old man, originally from Mexico, had faced deportation on four separate occasions—in 2004 and again in 2010. As outlined in a press release from the DHS, this history raises serious concerns.

In a statement shared on social media, DHS criticized Governor Newsom, suggesting that he was neglecting to cooperate with federal immigration authorities. “Governor Newsom is refusing to honor the illegal alien ICE detainee who killed an 11-year-old boy,” the message asserted.

The statement went on to question when Newsom would cease releasing individuals with criminal histories into California communities, potentially compromising public safety. Tricia McLaughlin, a spokesperson for DHS, pointed out that California’s “sanctuary law” may allow this individual to return to the streets.

In response, Newsom’s office issued a brief statement, saying, “While the federal government acknowledges that it was unable to arrest the suspect when he entered the United States illegally, California law does not preclude action at this time.”

Balderas-Aherol has been charged with felony hit-and-run that resulted in a death.

California Representative Ken Calvert expressed concern, stating on social media, “Sanctuary policies like the one Gov. Newsom supports are putting Californians at risk every day. We must prioritize the safety of California families.”

A family friend, Irene Gonzalez, shared her grief with KNSD-TV, saying, “We don’t celebrate Thanksgiving the way we should.” She added, “We are thankful that Aiden is no longer in pain. … We are grateful that he is now up with our Heavenly Father.”

Escondido is a suburb located in San Diego County.