Two Boys Killed in Alleged DUI Crash by Undocumented Immigrant

Authorities say the driver, an illegal immigrant from Mexico, veered off the road and struck the victims on a sidewalk.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 1:22am

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An extreme close-up of a shattered bicycle reflector, its metallic surface reflecting a harsh, direct flash of light against a pitch-black background, conveying the sudden and devastating impact of the crash.The aftermath of a deadly crash exposes the human toll of drunk driving and lax immigration enforcement.Spartanburg Today

An illegal immigrant from Mexico has been charged with two counts of felony DUI resulting in death after allegedly driving under the influence and striking two young boys, aged 12 and 9, who were riding their bikes on a sidewalk in Spartanburg, South Carolina. Both boys died from their injuries at a local hospital.

Why it matters

The tragic incident has reignited debates around immigration policy and the role of law enforcement in detaining and deporting undocumented individuals, especially those accused of serious crimes. It also highlights ongoing concerns about drunk driving and the need for greater road safety measures to protect pedestrians.

The details

According to authorities, the suspect, Eri Otoniel Roblero Perez, veered off the road and hit Dereon James Robinson, 12, and Mikhail-Lee Smith, 9, who were riding their bikes on the sidewalk. Perez was also charged with driving with an open container and driving without a license. The Department of Homeland Security has lodged an immigration detainer against Perez, confirming he entered the country illegally at an unknown date.

  • The incident occurred on April 17, 2026.
  • Perez was arrested and charged following the crash.

The players

Eri Otoniel Roblero Perez

An illegal immigrant from Mexico who has been charged with two counts of felony DUI resulting in death, driving with an open container, and driving without a license.

Dereon James Robinson

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

Mikhail-Lee Smith

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

Megan

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.

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What they’re saying

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

— Megan, 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.”

— 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. The Department of Homeland Security has lodged an immigration detainer against him, indicating he may face deportation proceedings.

The takeaway

This tragic incident highlights the ongoing debate around immigration policy and the need for stronger enforcement and accountability measures to prevent undocumented individuals accused of serious crimes from causing further harm. It also underscores the importance of road safety and combating drunk driving to protect vulnerable road users like pedestrians and cyclists.