Undocumented Immigrant Detained Following Fatal DUI Incident in South Carolina

The Department of Homeland Security confirmed on Friday that an undocumented immigrant has been placed in immigration detention after being accused of drunk driving and causing the deaths of two young boys in South Carolina.

Eli Otoniel Robrero Perez, originally from Mexico, reportedly drove off the road and struck Deleon James Robinson, 12, and Michael Lee Smith, 9, while they were cycling on the sidewalk. Tragically, both boys later died at a local hospital.

Perez faces several charges, including two felonies: DUI causing death and driving without a license, along with an open container violation.

In a poignant moment during the court hearing, DeLeon’s mother, Megan, shared that she was just behind her children when the accident occurred, saying she “almost hit them.” She recounted the horrors of running to her son as he bled out.

One of DeLeon’s brothers spoke up, expressing his grief: “Now I have to bury my brother, who looked up to me, on his birthday.”

DHS reported that Perez entered the United States illegally, although the date remains unknown. Acting assistant secretary of DHS, Lauren Biss, expressed her frustration regarding the incident: “These criminal illegal aliens from Mexico didn’t need to come to our country. Two young boys died because they decided to drink and drive.”

She added, “DeLeon Robinson and Michael Lee Smith should still be with us today. Our prayers are with the families of DeLeon Robinson and Michael Lee Smith.”

Perez is currently being held at the Spartanburg County Detention Center, without the option for bail.