Authorities have identified Carlos Montoya as the Guatemalan day laborer who lost his life on August 14 on the 210 Freeway at the Home Depot in Monrovia, California, while attempting to flee an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid.
The 52-year-old Guatemalan worked every day looking for work in that place, considered one of the busiest spots in Southern California where immigrants gather to obtain temporary jobs. That day, an immigration raid took dozens of workers by surprise and caused scenes of chaos. Carlos, while trying to flee, ended up crossing a few lanes of the freeway where he was hit by a vehicle that failed to stop in time.
Raids sow fear among migrant workers
Raids at gathering points such as Home Depot parking lots have intensified recently, according to Los Angeles-area immigrant advocacy organizations.
What were once routine surveillances are now operations with multiple agents arriving unannounced.
Witnesses report that day laborers, fearing arrest and deportation, flee regardless of the risk.
In the case of Carlos Montoya, that instinctive reaction led him to run towards the highway, where the fatal accident occurred.
Carlos Montoya only wanted to provide for his family
Neighbors and co-workers describe him as a kind, hard-working man dedicated to his family.
He had no criminal record and had not caused any problems.
Like many immigrant day laborers, he was up before dawn to look for work in construction, landscaping or remodeling, with no guarantee of pay or benefits.
His acquaintances say that, despite the difficulties, he always maintained a positive attitude and was willing to help other colleagues.
Call from pro-immigrant organizations
The death of Carlos Montoya has sparked a wave of outrage in the Latino community in Southern California.
Several pro-immigrant organizations are demanding an investigation into the operation that provoked the stampede and are demanding that the authorities put an end to this type of raids that endanger workers who are simply trying to earn a living.
They are also calling for the implementation of policies that protect day laborers and guarantee safe zones so that they can wait for employment without fear of being detained.
Urgent support for his family
Carlos Montoya’s family is going through a painful time and needs immediate assistance to cover funeral and other basic expenses.
An online fundraising campaign has been launched to receive donations and offer them support as they face this difficult situation.
Every contribution, no matter how small, can make a big difference.
Click here to donate to Carlos Montoya’s family GoFundMe.
We are devastated by this senseless loss and stand in solidarity with Carlos's family. Your contribution will go directly to helping his loved ones with funeral expenses, providing immediate financial assistance, and ensuring their support during this heartbreaking time
GoFundMe
