AG Wilson to lead prosecution of illegal immigrant charged with hit-and-run of USC student
Rosali Fernandez Cruz was arrested in connection with a fatal motorcycle collision at Assembly & Blossom Sts. (Photo: Columbia PD)
(Photo: Columbia Police Department)
COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson announced Thursday that his office will prosecute an illegal immigrant that has been charged in connection with a hit-and-run a USC student’s death.
Rosali Fernandez Cruz, from El Salvador is accused of being involved in the death of 21-year-old University of South Carolina student from Virginia Nathanial “Nate” Baker.
Baker who was a junior business major and active leader in the Phi Gamma Delta fraternity was riding his motorcycle on Wednesday, March 2, when he collided with Fernandez Cruz at the intersection of Blossom and Assembly Streets, say officials.
“This is a tragic situation, and our hearts go out to the family of Nate Baker who had a bright future ahead of him. His family sent him from Virginia to South Carolina to attend his parents’ alma mater and pursue his education,” states Attorney General Wilson.
Cruz who was driving a pickup truck, left the scene and was arrested shortly after by the Columbia Police Department.
He faces multiple charges, including hit-and-run resulting in death, failure to render aid, failure to yield the right of way, driving without a license.
“The individual charged in this case is an illegal immigrant ordered to be deported over seven years ago,” continues AG Wilson.
Authorities confirmed Cruz is in the country illegally and has had an order for removal since 2018.
Attorney General Wilson’s office is coordinating with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) to ensure there are no loopholes or escapes from justice, according to the AG’s Office.
After Cruz’s arrest, an active Immigration and Customs Enforcement detainer was placed on him. This should result in his deportation back to El Salvador once the criminal process is completed.
You can find the letter sent to Solicitor Byron Gipson here.
