A man was struck and killed by a vehicle while fleeing federal immigration agents during a raid at a Home Depot in Monrovia, California, authorities confirmed.The incident occurred on Thursday morning as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducted a raid at the store, prompting a desperate escape that ended in tragedy.
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theguardian.comThe victim, identified as Carlos Roberto Montoya, a 52-year-old Guatemalan national, was hit by a Ford Expedition traveling at 50 to 60 mph on the eastbound 210 Freeway.He died from his injuries after being transported to a local hospital, according to Monrovia City Manager Dylan Feik.
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abc7.comVideo footage showed Montoya running across Evergreen Avenue and onto the freeway, where he was struck by the vehicle.
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nbclosangeles.comICE operations at Home Depot locations in Southern California have become increasingly common under President Trump’s anti-immigrant policies, which prioritize mass deportations and expanded detention capabilities.The raid in Monrovia was part of a series targeting day laborers who frequent such stores, with federal agents detaining 10 individuals during the operation.
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nbclosangeles.comHowever, officials denied pursuing Montoya, stating he was not being chased by any DHS law enforcement.
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nbcnews.comThe incident has intensified scrutiny over ICE’s tactics and their impact on immigrant communities.Local activists and lawmakers condemned the raid, calling it inhumane and dangerous.State Assemblymember John Harabedian criticized the actions for instilling fear and putting lives at risk, noting that raids “terrorize families” and do not enhance public safety.
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theguardian.comImmigrant rights groups also accused Home Depot of complicity, citing its role as a gathering spot for day laborers.
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abc7.comWitnesses described chaotic scenes during the raid, with masked agents in tactical gear detaining workers at the store’s parking lot.One laborer recounted hearing shouts of “La migra, corre” (“Immigration, run!”) and fleeing to avoid detention, though he could not help his friends who were targeted.
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latimes.comThe National Day Laborer Organizing Network reported 13 detainees in the raid, with some alleging agents did not present warrants or identify themselves.
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nbcnews.comMonrovia officials confirmed no ongoing ICE activity in the city but noted that federal agents had been seen at the store earlier that day.City Manager Feik emphasized that the city has not received any communication from ICE regarding the operation.
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theguardian.comMeanwhile, the California Highway Patrol is investigating the fatal accident, with authorities urging the public to avoid contacting emergency lines for updates.
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nbclosangeles.comThe tragedy has galvanized local communities, leading to vigils and protests outside the Home Depot.Residents and activists demanded accountability for Montoya’s death, with one protester stating, “These people are looking for a job, and all of a sudden, someone loses their life.” The incident underscores broader tensions between federal immigration enforcement and sanctuary states like California, which have faced repeated raids despite legal protections for immigrants.
