Vigil Held for Man Killed While Fleeing ICE Raid in Monrovia

Vigil for Roberto Carlos Montoya Valdez

• 🕯️ A vigil was held in Monrovia for Roberto Carlos Montoya Valdez, 53, who died after being struck by a vehicle.
• 💔 He was originally from Guatemala and was remembered by a woman who hired him as a handyman as a "very, very nice person."

Circumstances of Death

• 🚗 Valdez was fatally struck by an SUV on the 210 freeway while reportedly running into traffic.
• 🚨 This occurred after a federal immigration raid at a Home Depot parking lot in Monrovia.
• 🗣️ Witnesses claim he was running away from ICE agents, though DHS states the individual was not pursued by their law enforcement.

Community Response and Concerns

• ✊ Over a hundred people gathered, many carrying signs demanding justice for Carlos.
• 💬 Some attendees expressed disagreement with DHS's statement, believing he was being chased.
• ⚖️ There is a call for a potential criminal investigation to determine the truth of the events.
• 🤝 A Catholic nun attended, emphasizing the need to be present for those afraid and to advocate for more just policies and inclusiveness.

Detained Workers and Divided Opinions

• 👥 The National Day Labor Organizing Network reported that between 10 and 13 workers were detained during the sweep.
• 📹 Obtained video appeared to show federal agents apprehending workers in the parking lot.
• 🤔 Some community members expressed divided opinions, with one person suggesting Valdez might have been scared of being caught for other reasons.
• 🕊️ The vigil contrasted with the previous day's events, which included protests, and featured people of all races and ages.