Two Boys Killed in Alleged DUI Crash by Illegal Immigrant

Eri Otoniel Roblero Perez, an undocumented immigrant from Mexico, charged with felony DUI resulting in deaths

Apr. 17, 2026 at 11:36pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a shattered bicycle part, such as a twisted handlebar or crumpled frame, against a stark black background, conceptually representing the tragic aftermath of the DUI crash that killed two young boys.The aftermath of a tragic DUI crash that claimed the lives of two young boys, exposing the human cost of illegal immigration and drunk driving.Spartanburg Today

An illegal immigrant from Mexico, Eri Otoniel Roblero Perez, has been charged with two counts of felony DUI resulting in the deaths of Dereon James Robinson, 12, and Mikhail-Lee Smith, 9, who were riding their bikes on the sidewalk when Perez allegedly veered off the road and struck them. Both boys died at the hospital, and Perez is now the subject of an immigration detainer by the Department of Homeland Security.

Why it matters

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing debate around immigration policy and the potential public safety risks posed by undocumented immigrants, especially those accused of serious crimes like drunk driving. The case has sparked outrage and renewed calls for stricter border control and deportation of illegal immigrants with criminal records.

The details

According to reports, Perez, who entered the country illegally at an unknown date, was driving under the influence when he veered off the road and struck Dereon and Mikhail-Lee, who were riding their bikes on the sidewalk. Both boys were rushed to the hospital but did not survive. Perez is now facing two counts of felony DUI resulting in death, as well as charges for an open container and driving without a license.

  • The incident occurred on April 16, 2026 in Spartanburg, South Carolina.

The players

Eri Otoniel Roblero Perez

An illegal immigrant from Mexico who has been charged with two counts of felony DUI resulting in the deaths of Dereon James Robinson and Mikhail-Lee Smith.

Dereon James Robinson

A 12-year-old boy who was killed in the alleged DUI crash while riding his bike on the sidewalk.

Mikhail-Lee Smith

A 9-year-old boy who was killed in the alleged DUI crash while riding his bike on the sidewalk.

Megan Robinson

The mother of Dereon James Robinson, who was walking behind the children when the crash occurred and was nearly hit herself.

Lauren Bis

The acting assistant secretary of the Department of Homeland Security, who condemned the incident and called for the deportation of the illegal immigrant charged in the case.

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What they’re saying

“I ran to my son while he bled to death.”

— Megan Robinson, Mother of Dereon James Robinson

“Now I have to bury my own brother who looked up to me, on his own birthday.”

— Dereon's brother

“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. Dereon Robinson and Mikhail-Lee Smith should still be with us today. Our prayers are with Dereon Robinson's and Mikhail-Lee Smith's families.”

— Lauren Bis, Acting Assistant Secretary, Department of Homeland Security

What’s next

Perez is being held at the Spartanburg County Detention Center and has been denied bond. Immigration authorities have lodged a detainer, which means he could face deportation proceedings if released from local custody.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the ongoing debate around immigration policy and the potential public safety risks posed by undocumented immigrants, especially those accused of serious crimes. The case has sparked outrage and renewed calls for stricter border control and deportation of illegal immigrants with criminal records.