Tragic Incident in Dane County

In a devastating incident in Dane County, Wisconsin, two teenagers lost their lives in a car crash involving an intoxicated driver. The driver, identified as Noelia Saray Martinez-Avila, a 30-year-old illegal immigrant from Honduras, faces deportation following the tragic event. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has highlighted the role of sanctuary policies in this case, stating that these policies have contributed to the deaths of 18-year-old Hallie Helgeson and 19-year-old Brady Heiling.

DHS and ICE’s Response

The DHS has expressed strong disapproval of sanctuary jurisdictions that do not honor Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainers. Assistant DHS Secretary Tricia McLaughlin emphasized that Helgeson and Heiling’s lives were cut short due to the actions of Martinez-Avila, who allegedly drove the wrong way on a highway while intoxicated. ICE has lodged a detainer against Martinez-Avila to facilitate her removal from the United States, citing her as a public safety threat.

Charges Against Martinez-Avila

Martinez-Avila faces multiple charges, including homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle and operating a vehicle with a revoked license causing death. The West Central Tribune reported that on July 20, Martinez-Avila was allegedly driving a Chevrolet Suburban the wrong way on I-90 when she collided with a Volkswagen Tiguan carrying Helgeson and Heiling. Helgeson died shortly after the crash, while Heiling succumbed to his injuries after being airlifted to a hospital.

Previous Convictions and Legal Proceedings

Martinez-Avila had a prior conviction for drunk driving in 2020 and was required to have an ignition interlock device installed in her vehicle. However, it was not installed at the time of the crash. Court records indicate that bond was set at $250,000 per case. If released on bond, Martinez-Avila is prohibited from consuming alcohol, operating a vehicle, or contacting the victims’ families.

Sanctuary Policies Under Scrutiny

The DHS has criticized Dane County for its history of not honoring ICE detainers due to sanctuary jurisdiction policies. This case has reignited debates over such policies and their impact on public safety. The DHS remains committed to seeking justice for Helgeson and Heiling and ensuring that similar tragedies are prevented in the future.