Full Breakdown
Nashville Restaurant Owner Murder Leads to ICE Detainer and 20-Year Sentence
7/25/2026, 12:29:04 PM
Fatal Incident and Legal Outcome
On June 19 2024, Ulises Raigoza-Martinez, a 26-year-old Mexican citizen, entered the parking lot of Smokin’ Thighs and attempted to steal tools from the pickup truck of owner Matt Carney, 42. When Carney confronted the thief, Raigoza-Martinez drove his truck into Carney, sending him onto the hood and then to the pavement. Carney sustained critical injuries and died at a Nashville hospital on July 4 2024. Police arrested Raigoza-Martinez in South Nashville on July 18 2024 after a weeks-long search. Two years later, on July 22 2026, he pleaded guilty to second-degree murder, theft over $10,000, theft over $2,500, and evidence tampering, receiving a 20-year prison term.
Immigration Detainer and Federal Response
Following the guilty plea, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) filed an immigration detainer, requiring Tennessee officials to notify ICE before any release. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) indicated that, after completing his prison sentence, Raijoza-Martinez will be transferred to ICE custody for removal proceedings and eventual deportation.
Data and Timeline
- June 19 2024 – Attempted robbery and vehicle-ramming of Matt Carney.
- July 4 2024 – Carney dies from injuries.
- July 18 2024 – Arrest of Raigoza-Martinez in South Nashville.
- July 22 2026 – Guilty plea; sentenced to 20 years.
Official Statements & Responses
The Nashville judge who previously dismissed unrelated theft charges in March 2024 noted insufficient probable cause at that hearing.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Look at what’s happening to our cities. Our cities are being overrun,” — Donald Trump, attention as president — Donald Trump, former president, referencing the incident during a campaign rally.
