A Mexican agricultural worker tragically lost his life after sustaining severe injuries during a large-scale immigration raid on July 10 in Ventura County, California. The worker, identified by some outlets as Jaime García, fell from a height of roughly 30 feet (about 9 meters) while perched on the roof of a Glass House Farms facility, a legal cannabis cultivation business in Camarillo.
The incident occurred amid a crackdown by immigration agents, part of an investigation into alleged violations of immigration and child labor laws, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). García suffered critical injuries, including fractures to his neck and skull and a severed artery.
He was rushed to Ventura County Medical Center in critical condition, where he remained on life support for several days. "We assumed he was caught... but then we received a call from the hospital saying he was in critical condition with catastrophic injuries," his niece told American media. She later added, "His wife and parents decided to let him rest today. He has passed away."
Originally from Michoacán, García worked in California to send remittances back to his family in Mexico. His wife and daughter were notified, and a community campaign raised over $31,100 to cover medical expenses and his remains' repatriation.
Mexican Government's Response
The Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs (SRE) released a statement offering "sincere condolences to the relatives of the deceased countryman." The Mexican Consulate in Oxnard provided continuous support and assistance, including:
- Support for relatives during García's hospitalization.
- Coordination with the family in Michoacán for consular assistance and guidance.
- Efforts to expedite the repatriation of his remains.
- Liaison with the External Legal Advisory Program (PALE) for legal follow-up on the case.
The SRE reiterated its commitment to protecting the human rights of Mexicans abroad. It also reminded the public that the Consular Support Line is available 24/7 at 520 623 7874 from the U.S.
Allegations of Abuse and Discrimination
The United Farm Workers (UFW) condemned the raid as chaotic and violent, leading to four other individuals being hospitalized and three more receiving on-site medical attention. The union stated, "There is no city, state, or federal district where it is legal to terrorize and detain individuals simply for having brown skin and working in agriculture."
The organization further reported that workers, including U.S. citizens, were detained for up to eight hours. Some were even forced to delete photos and videos from their phones. The whereabouts of several employees remain unknown, as they are still reported missing.
Unprecedented Raid Sparks Protests
Authorities reported that at least 200 individuals were detained on Glass House Farms properties. U.S. media have described this as the largest immigration raid during the current federal administration. Videos on social media show agents equipped with heavy tactical gear, prompting criticism from farm owners who argue that their workers were not criminals.
The raid sparked protests in the area, with approximately 500 people gathering near the farms. Authorities reported damage to patrol vehicles, the use of tear gas, and an incident involving a firearm by a protester.
Key Questions About the Immigration Raid in California
What led to the immigration raid in Ventura County?
The raid was part of an investigation into alleged violations of immigration and child labor laws, as stated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
How many people were detained during the raid?
Authorities reported that at least 200 individuals were detained on the properties of Glass House Farms.
What was the response of the Mexican government to the incident?
The Mexican Ministry of Foreign Affairs expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and provided continuous support through the Mexican Consulate in Oxnard.