EXCLUSIVE TO FOX: Fox News has discovered that the suspect in the fatal DUI hit-and-run involving a 14-year-old high school student from Southern California is an undocumented immigrant from Mexico. This individual, despite having two previous DUI arrests in California, remained in the U.S. due to current immigration policies under the Biden administration.
Jose Abelardo Villegas-Orbe, 47, who is in the country illegally, faces charges of vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated as well as DUI hit-and-run resulting in death.
The tragic incident claimed the life of Liam Cantu, a freshman at La Quinta High School. The teenager was struck by a vehicle on October 10 while cycling with a friend.
Villegas-Orbe, a Mexican national, is formally charged in connection with the young student’s death. (Fox News)
Liam Cantu succumbed to his injuries in the hospital on October 24, as confirmed by La Quinta High School officials.
He died in a hospital Oct. 24, according to a statement from La Quinta High School.
The other teen, who has not been publicly identified, was hospitalized following the crash and later released, according to local outlet News Channel 3.
La Quinta High School freshman Liam Cantu, 14, was hit Oct. 10 while riding his bike. He later died at a hospital. (@lqhsblackhawks via Instagram)
Multiple federal law enforcement sources told Fox that Villegas-Orbe was arrested for driving under the influence in August 2024 and November 2024 in Riverside County, California.
However, since the DUI arrests were misdemeanors, sources said they did not meet the Biden administration’s immigration enforcement priorities.
La Quinta High School freshman Liam Cantu, 14, died after the Oct. 10 crash. (Google Maps)
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainers were not filed at the time, meaning there was no effort made to deport Villegas-Orbe after the arrests.
Sources said ICE has now filed a detainer request with local law enforcement for the fatal hit-and-run arrest.
California’s sanctuary state law likely will not allow any cooperation, even if Villegas-Orbe makes bail.
“We remember his smile, his laughter, and the energy he brought into every space,” La Quinta High School wrote in an Instagram post. “We remember Liam today and always. His spirit will forever be a part of our school family.”
