Full Breakdown
Tragic Incident in South Carolina: Illegal Immigrant Charged with DUI and Fatal Crash
4/18/2026, 5:25:44 AM
Incident Overview
Eri Otoniel Roblero Perez, an illegal immigrant from Mexico, has been charged with driving under the influence (DUI) after allegedly causing a fatal accident that resulted in the deaths of two young boys, Dereon James Robinson, 12, and Mikhail-Lee Smith, 9, in South Carolina. The incident occurred when Perez reportedly veered off the road and struck the boys while they were riding their bikes on a sidewalk. Both victims succumbed to their injuries at a hospital shortly after the crash.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Following the incident, Perez was charged with two counts of felony DUI resulting in death, as well as additional charges for driving with an open container and driving without a license. He is currently being held at the Spartanburg County Detention Center, where he has been denied bond. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has also placed an immigration detainer on Perez, confirming that he entered the United States illegally at an unspecified time.
Family Impact
The tragic event has deeply affected the families of the victims. Megan, the mother of Dereon Robinson, recounted the harrowing moment of the accident, stating she was walking behind the boys and "almost hit" herself. She expressed her grief, saying, "I ran to my son while he bled to death." Dereon's brother also shared his sorrow, reflecting on the loss of his sibling on what was supposed to be a celebratory day.
Official Statements
DHS acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis condemned Perez's actions, stating, "This criminal illegal alien from Mexico had no business being in our country, and now two boys are dead because he decided to drive under the influence." Bis emphasized that Dereon Robinson and Mikhail-Lee Smith "should still be with us today," extending prayers to their families.
Criticism & Opposition
The incident has sparked discussions regarding immigration policies and public safety. Critics argue that cases like this highlight the potential dangers posed by illegal immigrants, particularly those who engage in criminal behavior. Advocates for immigration reform have called for stricter enforcement of laws to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the details surrounding the incident are largely consistent across reports, there is a lack of information regarding the specific circumstances leading to Perez's illegal entry into the United States. Additionally, the timeline of events from the moment of the crash to the legal proceedings has not been fully detailed.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I ran to my son while he bled to death,” — Megan, Mother of Dereon Robinson
- “This criminal illegal alien from Mexico had no business being in our country, and now two boys are dead because he decided to drive under the influence,” — Lauren Bis, DHS Acting Assistant Secretary
This tragic incident underscores the complex interplay between immigration status and public safety, raising critical questions about accountability and the implications of illegal immigration in the United States.
