Alleged Murder of Veteran Linked to Illegal Immigration Policies
An undocumented immigrant, released into the U.S. by the Biden administration, is accused of murdering 71-year-old veteran Randy Whitten in a random attack at his home in West Point, Utah.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents filed a detention complaint against Axel Eduardo Chavez Marroquin, an illegal immigrant from El Salvador who crossed the southern border into California in 2021.
“This individual should never have been on our streets, and Randy Witten should still be alive,” said a representative from the Department of Homeland Security. “ICE is asking Utah officials to ensure this person is not released from custody and to assist in deportation efforts. The reckless sanctuary policies in some states are jeopardizing American lives.”
On May 30, Randy Witten was reportedly seen by police hanging decorations at his home when Chavez-Marroquin parked nearby, exited his vehicle, and fired ten shots at the veteran.
Witten was killed in the attack, and Chavez-Marroquin fled to Las Vegas, where he was apprehended on June 16 on suspicion of murder.
Authorities have indicated that the shooting was recorded on Witten’s doorbell camera. They are still trying to determine the motive and whether Witten was specifically targeted.
Witten leaves behind his wife Maria and children. He served 20 years in the U.S. Air Force and was a veteran of Vietnam, Desert Storm, and Grenada.
His military commendations were extensive, including the Meritorious Service Medal and various other accolades for service and conduct.
Chavez Marroquin is facing multiple charges, including murder and obstruction of justice, and is currently held in a Utah jail.
It has come to light that he should have been transferred to ICE custody before Witten’s death, following prior arrests for domestic violence in California. However, due to California’s sanctuary policies, ICE was not informed of these arrests.
“This accused murderer had already been arrested twice yet was released due to sanctuary policies,” the DHS representative added, pointing to a concerning pattern of disregard for safety.
