Two Mexican nationals have been convicted in connection with the deadliest human smuggling incident in U.S. history. Felipe Orduna-Torres and Armando Gonzales-Ortega were found guilty in a San Antonio federal court. Their sentencing is set for June 27, marking three years since the tragic event that claimed the lives of 53 immigrants.
The incident occurred in June 2022 when a tractor-trailer was discovered abandoned with dozens of migrants trapped inside. The vehicle had no air conditioning, and the extreme heat led to the deaths of many, including six children and a pregnant woman. In total, 67 immigrants were found in the trailer, which had been smuggled across the border.
The jury took about an hour to reach their verdict after a two-week trial. They found both men guilty of multiple charges, including conspiracy to transport aliens resulting in death and serious bodily injury. Orduna-Torres was identified as a leader in the smuggling operation, while Gonzales-Ortega served as the coordinator.
During the trial, it was revealed that the migrants had paid between $12,000 and $15,000 each for their perilous journey into the United States. Many of the victims were from Mexico, Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador.
Five other men have also pleaded guilty in connection with this case, including the truck driver, Homero Zamorano Jr., who was found hiding near the trailer. He faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. Several others involved in the smuggling operation have been charged in Mexico and Guatemala.
Matthew Gagliotti, Acting Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, emphasized the dangers of human smuggling, stating that it is often linked to severe crimes like rape and extortion. He stressed the importance of addressing these issues to prevent future tragedies.
As the sentencing date approaches, the families of the victims and the community continue to seek justice for those who lost their lives in this heartbreaking incident.