(DailyChive.com) – Brandon Ortiz-Vite, a 25-year-old undocumented immigrant from Mexico, has been found guilty in the death of Ruby Garcia, also 25, in Kent County, Michigan. According to reports from the Grand Rapids police, Garcia was discovered dead on March 22 with multiple gunshot wounds along the side of U.S. Highway 131.
Ortiz-Vite’s immigration status has drawn attention, as Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officials confirmed his illegal presence in the United States. He had been deported to Mexico in 2020 but managed to reenter the country.
However, this isn’t Ortiz-Vite’s first run-in with law enforcement. In 2020, he faced charges of driving with a suspended license and drunk driving, leading to a bench warrant after he failed to appear in court. Additionally, his criminal record shows prior incidents in 2017 and 2018.
Further investigation into the crime revealed exchanged text messages between the victim and Ortiz-Vite, arranging a meeting shortly before her death. Subsequently, Garcia’s car, a red 2023 Mazda 3, was found abandoned with bullet holes and suspected bloodstains inside, further implicating Ortiz-Vite.
On March 24, Ortiz-Vite contacted Allegan County 911, expressing his intention to surrender. Police detained him, noting the presence of what appeared to be blood on his clothing. During interrogation, Ortiz-Vite confessed to the shooting and revealed that he had illegally purchased the firearm.
The charges against Ortiz-Vite are severe, including carjacking, multiple weapons charges, open murder, and felony murder. Prosecutors emphasize the gravity of the case, highlighting the prevalence of domestic violence homicides in recent years.
Meanwhile, in the wake of Garcia’s tragic death, her family mourns the loss of a cherished loved one known for her bright smile and loving nature.
To prevent similar incidents, Kent County Prosecutor Christopher Becker urges individuals facing domestic violence to speak up and seek help immediately.
Ortiz-Vite faces a bleak future with potential life imprisonment for his egregious actions, and he is currently held without bond in the Kent County Jail.
Copyright 2024, DailyChive.com
