An illegal immigrant is accused of causing the death of 59-year-old Ricky Maddox in a suspected driving incident in Avoyelles Parish, Louisiana.
Roberto Romero Hernandez, a 34-year-old undocumented immigrant from Mexico, faces several charges, including vehicular homicide, driving under the influence, and operating a vehicle without a license, according to Louisiana State Police.
On August 3, authorities report that Romero Hernandez veered off Louisiana Highway 1 and collided with Maddox, who was on the shoulder using a lawnmower.
Maddox was taken to a local hospital but was pronounced dead shortly after. Interestingly, Romero Hernandez, who wasn’t wearing a seatbelt, emerged from the incident unscathed.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has noted that Romero Hernandez is an undocumented immigrant who crossed the southern border at an unspecified time. ICE has requested custody of him should he be released from jail.
In a statement, Homeland Security’s Tricia McLaughlin remarked, “The reckless decision to drink and drive led to the death of an innocent man.”
Maddox’s obituary, shared online, described him as a beloved member of his community. It stated, “His passion was working as a small engine mechanic, especially with lawn mowers. He could fix just about anything and was often seen working with his brother Kevin. Whether he was repairing machinery or collecting scrap metal, he was a well-known figure in the Polish community.”
Currently, Romero Hernandez is held at the Avoyelles Parish Detention Center.
