Ernesto Lopez-Gomez, a Mexican national residing in the United States without legal authorization, has been charged with felony hit-and-run resulting in the death of 62-year-old Christopher Babcock in North Carolina. The Pitt County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainer is in place for Lopez-Gomez, who is being held on a $2 million bond.
Details of the Incident
The collision occurred on March 11 at approximately 7:45 p.m. near the intersection of U.S. Route 13 and U.S. Route 264 Alternate, close to Moye Turnage Road southeast of Farmville. According to the Pitt County Sheriff’s Office, Babcock was riding his motorcycle toward Greenville, North Carolina, when Lopez-Gomez allegedly turned left in front of him, causing a collision. Lopez-Gomez fled the scene following the crash. Babcock subsequently died from his injuries.
Legal and Immigration Status
Lopez-Gomez, 25, entered the U.S. illegally on an unspecified date, a source with United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) confirmed. He faces felony charges for the hit-and-run leading to a fatality. The Department of Homeland Security’s acting Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis criticized the case, stating that the suspect “should have NEVER been in our country.” She cited current immigration policies as contributing factors.
Victim and Community Response
Christopher Babcock was remembered in his obituary as a man marked by kindness, humor, and generosity, who deeply loved his family and dogs. He is survived by his wife, two stepchildren, and a sister. The community and family mourn his death following this fatal accident.
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