Authorities say an illegal immigrant fleeing Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers in Savannah, Georgia, caused a vehicle collision on Monday that resulted in the death of a beloved special education teacher. ICE agents were attempting to pull over Guatemalan national Oscar Vasquez Lopez, 38, when he made “a reckless U-turn” and ran a red light before colliding with Dr. Linda Davis’ vehicle, according to the federal agency. Davis was pronounced dead at the scene. “This vehicular homicide is an absolute tragedy and deadly consequence of politicians and the media constantly demonizing ICE officers and encouraging those here illegally to resist arrest — a felony,” Homeland Security Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement. “These dangerous tactics are putting people’s lives at risk. Fleeing from and resisting federal law enforcement is not only a crime but extraordinarily dangerous and puts oneself, our officers and innocent civilians at risk. Now, an innocent bystander has lost their life,” McLaughlin added. Vasquez Lopez unlawfully crossed the border at an unknown time, according to DHS. He then received a deportation order in 2024. On Monday, DHS said Vasquez Lopez was in custody at a local hospital, where he was being treated for minor injuries. The Chatham County Police Department has charged him with vehicular homicide and multiple traffic offenses, including reckless driving, driving without a valid license, and failure to obey traffic control devices. Davis’s employer, Hesse K-8 School, released a statement on Facebook on Monday, describing the deceased as “a beloved member of our school family,” adding that “her loss has affected us deeply.” The crash occurred less than a mile from the school, which was holding a work day for teachers while students stayed home for the President’s Day holiday, according to local news channel WJCL. “We all should expect and try to understand that there will be a variety of emotions and responses as to what has occurred. The most important thing we can do is to be supportive and encourage an open expression of feelings,” the school said. The school is offering counseling for students and staff “who need special attention and support” in the wake of Davis’ “tragic” death. Several community members shared their condolences in the comments on the school’s Facebook post. One woman said Davis had “the most beautiful and infectious smile and personality that lit up everything and everyone around her.” Another who said she grew up with Davis described her as an “amazing” sibling to her three sisters.