URGENT UPDATE: The family of a farmworker who tragically died following an immigration raid at a Camarillo cannabis grow house is demanding accountability from United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). A federal court claim was filed by attorneys for Jaime Alanís Garcia, who fell 30 feet while allegedly fleeing from federal agents during the operation at Glass House Farms last month.
The incident occurred on June 15, 2023, when Alanís Garcia was reportedly trying to escape ICE agents who were conducting a raid. He was taken to the hospital with severe injuries, including a broken neck and skull, and died two days later.
“This man expected this to be like any other day,” stated attorney Robbie Munoz. “He showed up to work, he expected that he was going to be able to perform his job, and go home to his family, and he never had that opportunity.” This statement underscores the devastating human impact of this incident.
The family is seeking damages for Alanís Garcia’s pre-death pain and suffering, medical expenses, lost earnings, and funeral costs. His wife and daughter are also filing a wrongful death action, citing loss of financial support, services, consortium, and inheritance he would have provided.
If ICE does not respond to their claim within six months, the family is prepared to escalate the matter by filing a lawsuit in federal court, as confirmed by their legal representatives.
Eyewitness News has reached out to ICE for comment but has not received a response. Following Alanís Garcia’s death, Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs at the Department of Homeland Security, stated, “This man was not in and has not been in CBP or ICE custody. Although he was not being pursued by law enforcement, this individual climbed up to the roof of a greenhouse and fell 30 feet. CBP immediately called a medivac to the scene to get him care as quickly as possible.”
As this story develops, the family continues to seek justice and answers regarding the circumstances surrounding Alanís Garcia’s death. This case raises urgent questions about the conduct of ICE during enforcement operations, particularly in vulnerable communities. Stay tuned for further updates as we monitor this unfolding situation.