EXCLUSIVE REPORT: Fox News has uncovered that the individual accused in the tragic death of a 14-year-old Southern California student in a DUI hit-and-run incident is an undocumented immigrant from Mexico. This revelation raises questions about the enforcement of immigration policies under the current administration. The suspect, identified as Jose Abelardo Villegas-Orbe, aged 47, had two previous DUI arrests in California, yet remained in the United States due to policies enacted by the Biden administration.

The charges against Villegas-Orbe include vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and a DUI hit-and-run resulting in death. This incident has sparked significant concern over how prior offenses are managed and the broader implications of immigration policy.

The victim, Liam Cantu, was a freshman at La Quinta High School. On October 10, while riding his bicycle with a friend, he was struck by a vehicle. The subsequent weeks were critical, and, tragically, Cantu succumbed to his injuries on October 24, as confirmed by a statement from the school.

Jose Abelardo Villegas-Orbe faces serious charges in connection with this devastating event, which has left a community grieving and seeking answers.

He died in the 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 the 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, both 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.”