Two Migrants Indicted for Fatal Hit-and-Run of Teen on E-Bike in Georgia
Two migrants have been formally indicted on serious charges after they were accused of running over and killing a teenage boy in Georgia more than a month ago. The tragic incident occurred in Savannah on December 28, when 14-year-old Marcus Anderson was riding his e-bike around 7pm.
Details of the Alleged Crime
According to authorities, Marcus Anderson was allegedly struck by a white van being driven by 32-year-old Miguel Reyes-Castro, with 29-year-old Olvin Ramos-Ramos as the passenger. An arrest warrant stated that surveillance camera footage captured the van jolting up and down before Reyes-Castro got out to check on the boy, then returned to the vehicle and fled the scene.
The Chatham County Police Department located the van within a few hours at a job site on Tybee Island. Police noted the vehicle was damaged and had been hastily repaired with zip ties and a fresh coat of paint on the bumper. Broken pieces from the van matched debris found at the crash scene, providing crucial evidence.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
The vehicle was seized as evidence, and Reyes-Castro and Ramos-Ramos were arrested a day after the hit-and-run. They were initially charged with felony tampering with evidence and misdemeanor obstruction. Both men were booked into the Chatham County Detention Center, where they remained until more serious charges were served on January 22.
Miguel Reyes-Castro now faces charges of felony first-degree vehicular homicide, felony hit-and-run, and driving without a license. Olvin Ramos-Ramos, the registered owner of the van, has been charged with felony party to a crime. Both suspects are being held at the detention center without bond.
ICE Involvement and Migrant Status
Notably, both men have ICE detainers placed on them. This means the Department of Homeland Security has determined they are potentially dangerous aliens and has requested custody for likely deportation. ICE typically issues such detainers for migrants convicted of serious crimes, but they can also be issued before conviction if a suspect is deemed a public safety or national security threat.
Remembering Marcus Anderson
On a GoFundMe page created by Anderson's family to cover funeral expenses, the deceased teen was described as a 'sweet, energetic, kind-hearted boy.' His family added, 'He was a hard worker, one of the smartest kids you’d ever meet, and truly one of the best. He loved fishing, his 4x4 trucks, and spending time with his friends. His smile, his laughter, and his bright future will never be forgotten.'
In early January, a candlelight vigil was held in Savannah at the spot where Anderson was killed. At the vigil, one of the teen's cousins told WTOC, 'I just hate that he’s gone, but I just know he’s in a better place now.' Another family member said, 'He had a really vibrant personality. He was a really smart kid, and we loved him so much, and that’s gonna be a big hole, but we’re grateful we got to spend the time we did with him.'
The case continues to develop as legal proceedings advance, with both suspects awaiting further court appearances while in custody.
