ICE detains undocumented mother in Arizona accident that took her daughter’s life

Incident Involving Undocumented Immigrant Leads to Tragic Crash

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has detained a mother, believed to be undocumented, following a rollover accident in Arizona. This unfortunate incident resulted in the death of her 9-year-old daughter and injuries to three other children, as reported.

Brenda Liliana Rivera Estrada, a 30-year-old Mexican national, is alleged to have been impaired during the crash on April 12. Authorities stated that during the accident, her daughter, sharing a seatbelt with her brother, was thrown from the vehicle, while two boys aged 11 and 3, along with a 1-year-old girl, sustained injuries.

Rivera-Estrada faces several felony charges related to manslaughter and child abuse, alongside a $100,000 bail. However, after local prosecutors opted not to pursue charges, she was released, only to be apprehended by ICE thereafter.

Alejandro Almeida, the Deputy Director of ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Phoenix, emphasized that this case highlights the significance of the Criminal Alien Program and the commitment to public safety shown by law enforcement officials involved.

Almeida remarked, “Her fate now lies with the Department of Justice’s Office of Immigration Review and the available options for appeals, which will determine if she can remain in the U.S.” ICE agents first made contact with Rivera-Estrada on April 16, when she was booked at the Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Reception, Transfer and Release Facility. They work to identify undocumented immigrants in such facilities as part of their ongoing efforts.

According to ICE reports, Rivera-Estrada entered the U.S. through Nogales, Arizona, on February 14, 2009, as a nonimmigrant border crosser, permitted to stay for only up to 30 days. Officials noted that she remained beyond this period, thus breaching federal immigration laws. She will stay in ICE custody pending the outcome of her immigration proceedings.

A prosecutor commented on the situation, indicating that “The suspect chose to drive while allegedly under the influence of marijuana.” Witnesses reported that Rivera-Estrada was speeding in the moments leading up to the crash.

Arizona state troopers noted the smell of marijuana at the scene, and Rivera-Estrada reportedly acknowledged using the substance during a court hearing.