A previously deported illegal migrantwho federal officials say was kicked out of the US four separate timesadmitted to a California hit-and-run that killed an 11-year-old boy, reigniting outrage over the state’s sanctuary laws and Gov. Gavin Newsom’s immigration policies.
Hector Amador Balderas, 44, pleaded guilty Friday to felony hit-and-run leading to the death of 11-year-old Aiden Antonio Torres De Paz. The crash happened in Escondido outside San Diego, on Nov. 26, 2025, the day before Thanksgiving.
“Hector Balderas-Aheelor was previously removed FOUR times before he chose to commit a felony and illegally re-enter the country a fifth time,” formerDHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlinsaid. “Gavin Newsom, we are calling on YOU to do the right thing and honor ICE’s arrest detainer.”
Federal officials said Balderas had previously been deported on March 19, 2004; June 10, 2004; June 15, 2004; and March 4, 2010, before allegedly re-entering the US again illegally.
Investigators said Aiden ran into the street to retrieve a soccer ball near East Washington Avenue and Hickory Street around 5 p.m. when Balderas struck the child with his vehicle and fled the scene instead of stopping to render aid.
The young boy was rushed to Rady Children’s Hospital, where he died Thanksgiving morning.
Authorities said Balderas surrendered to police days later.
Court records show he is expected to receive between two and three years in state prison at sentencing early next month. He remains jailed without bail.
The case erupted into a political flashpoint after the Department of Homeland Security revealed that after Balderas’ arrest, Immigration and Customs Enforcement issued an immigration detainer requesting notification before any potential release from custody.
But the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office rejected the request under California sanctuary-state restrictions.
Source: California Post – Breaking California News, Photos & Videos
