Suspect in fatal New Jersey hit-and-run crash is illegal alien, fugitive: DHS

EXCLUSIVE: In a tragic incident in New Jersey, a man accused of fatally hitting a pedestrian with his truck has been identified as an undocumented immigrant, according to information obtained by Fox News Digital.

The Department of Homeland Security has revealed that Wilson “Adrian” Morocho-Necta, aged 33, hails from Ecuador. He first entered the United States illegally via the southern border in 2019. After a judge issued a final order for his removal, he was deported back to Mexico.

Despite his deportation, Morocho-Necta managed to reenter the United States at an unidentified location and time.

Headshot of Illegal immigrant Wilson

This image shows Wilson “Adrian” Morocho-Necta, the alleged perpetrator of the deadly accident in Morristown, N.J., on March 19, 2026. (Morris County Prosecutor’s Office)

Currently, he is evading capture, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) is actively searching for him.

Under New Jersey’s Immigrant Trust Directive, which is commonly known as a “sanctuary” policy for undocumented immigrants, local law enforcement is restricted from cooperating with federal immigration officials. This directive aims to build trust between law enforcement and the state’s diverse immigrant populations, ensuring that individuals feel secure in reporting crimes, whether as victims or witnesses.

ICE Agents approach a home

In this handout provided by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, foreign nationals were arrested during a targeted enforcement operation. (DHS)

Morocho-Necta was charged with leaving an accident resulting in death and endangering an injured victim by leaving the crash. The victim has been identified as Justo Pilco-Tenesaca, 68, of Morristown. 

Pilco-Tenesaca was reportedly pinned under the truck, prompting 911 calls from bystanders while Morocho-Necta fled on foot. 

Pilco-Tenesaca was rushed to a nearby hospital after the crash but died from his injuries.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection police officers

U.S. Customs and Border Protection police officers stand outside the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building during a protest Jan. 17, 2026, in Minneapolis.  (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

Morocho-Necta was driving an HC Home Improvement & Construction truck. The owner of that company, Eric Couper, reportedly said he was “friggin’ mortified” over the crash.

“The Morris County Prosecutor’s Office is aware of the defendant’s immigration status,” said Meghan Knab, the office’s public information officer. “Morocho-Necta is currently at-large, and we are seeking public assistance in apprehending the fugitive. We will be communicating and cooperating consistent with applicable New Jersey state and federal laws regarding immigration.”

“Upon being taken into custody, the MCPO intends to file a motion seeking pre-trial detention consistent with the Criminal Justice Reform Act,” she continued.

The City of Morristown did not immediately return a request for comment.

Fox News Digital reached out to Couper. 

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