Father blames Illinois governor for daughter's death due to migrant policies

In January 2025, Katie Abraham, a 20-year-old student, was tragically killed in a drunk driving hit-and-run incident in Illinois. She and a friend were waiting at a stoplight when their vehicle was struck at high speed by a man from Guatemala, who was illegally in the U.S. Authorities indicated that he was allegedly driving under the influence and fled the scene after the collision. Among the severe winter conditions, both girls sustained life-threatening injuries; Katie died at the scene, while her friend also passed away shortly after at a hospital. This event has raised significant concern about illegal immigration policies, particularly within sanctuary cities. Joe Abraham, Katie's father, publicly criticized the sanctuary policies implemented by Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, suggesting that these laws allowed dangerous individuals, such as her killer, to remain free. He expressed his devastation over losing his daughter and called attention to his belief that proper immigration enforcement could have prevented the tragedy. His grief led him to seek dialogue with state officials, yet he found their response lacking. In the wake of his daughter's death, the Department of Homeland Security launched “Operation Midway Blitz,” which aims to enhance immigration enforcement in Illinois. This crackdown is said to be in Katie's honor and is part of a broader effort to improve public safety in the state. Acting ICE Director Todd Lyons stated that the operation seeks to remove individuals who present a danger to the community. Meanwhile, Mayor Brandon Johnson of Chicago voiced opposition to the DHS's approach, emphasizing a concern for due process rights and the potential for wrongful detentions. The contrasting viewpoints between local leaders and federal authorities reflect ongoing tensions surrounding immigration policy in Illinois. Joe Abraham emphasizes the need for accountability and change, as he mourns for a daughter whose life was cut short by an act of violence that he believes could have been avoided. He wishes to prevent other families from experiencing similar losses, advocating for reform in immigration law to address public safety concerns effectively.