Raul Luna-Perez, a 43-year-old illegal migrant from Mexico with a history of DUI arrests and domestic violence, is facing vehicular homicide charges after a lethal crash in Lakewood, New Jersey, which claimed the lives of a mother and her 11-year-old daughter. The tragic incident has sparked a heated debate over sanctuary policies, with ICE officials blaming New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy’s administration for allowing the criminal to remain in the community.
The crash occurred on July 26 when Luna-Perez, driving a Dodge Durango, crossed into oncoming traffic and collided with a Nissan Sentra. The Nissan was being driven by a woman who was pronounced dead at the scene, while her 11-year-old daughter succumbed to her injuries at Monmouth Medical Center. Another 11-year-old girl in the car was hospitalized in critical condition, though she was reportedly stable. Luna-Perez, who had already been arrested in the past for DUI and domestic violence, was also cited for showing signs of impairment at the scene.
ICE lodged a detainer against Luna-Perez on Monday and has initiated removal proceedings while he remains in custody. Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin of ICE accused Governor Murphy and his sanctuary policies for allowing the criminal’s release into the community.