Georgia teacher killed after man fleeing ICE slams into her car

A traffic stop by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers escalated into a fatal crash near Savannah, Georgia, killing a special education teacher on her way to work and raising serious questions about federal pursuit tactics and coordination with local authorities.

Oscar Vasquez Lopez, 38, a Guatemalan national living illegally in the United States , remains in custody on charges including vehicular homicide, reckless driving, and driving without a valid licence. Authorities said Lopez was being sought to enforce a 2024 deportation order and had no prior criminal history. He was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries following the collision before being transferred to jail, where a judge later denied him bond.

According to ICE, officers activated sirens and blue lights to initiate a traffic stop on Monday morning. Lopez initially pulled over but suddenly accelerated as officers approached his vehicle. He made a U-turn, ran a stop light, and drove at high speed in an apparent attempt to flee . Surveillance footage obtained by local media showed a red pickup truck racing past Herman W. Hesse K-8 School, followed seconds later by vehicles with flashing lights. Investigators said the pursuit was brief, but Lopez’s reckless driving directly caused the crash.

The collision occurred less than 0.8 kilometres from the school at around 7.45 am. Though students were off for Presidents Day, teachers were reporting to work. The victim, identified as special education teacher Linda Davis , was driving to campus when her vehicle was struck. She was rushed to hospital but succumbed to her injuries .

School officials described Davis as a deeply respected educator known for her kindness, patience, and enthusiasm , saying she devoted her career to helping children feel supported and valued. Grief counselors were made available for staff and families.

Local officials said they were unaware of the ICE operation. Savannah Mayor Van Johnson questioned whether the enforcement action justified the deadly outcome, noting that local police follow strict pursuit policies designed to protect public safety. Chatham County Commission chairman Chester Ellis said there may have been safer alternatives to prevent the tragedy.

The Department of Homeland Security defended the officers’ actions, blaming public criticism of immigration enforcement for encouraging suspects to flee, as investigations into the incident continue.