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Savannah Mourns Teacher Killed in ICE-Related Crash as Officials Press for Answers on Pursuit and Coordination

Local leaders question whether ICE notified police under federal pursuit rules that do not require advance local notice.

Overview

  • Oscar Vasquez-Lopez, 38, identified by DHS as a Guatemalan national with a 2024 final order of removal, is in custody on charges including first-degree vehicular homicide.
  • ICE says agents initiated a stop to enforce the removal order before the driver fled, made a U-turn, ran a light and collided with Dr. Linda Davis’ car.
  • Security video near Hesse K-8 shows a red pickup speeding past the school followed seconds later by law-enforcement vehicles with flashing lights.
  • Savannah and Chatham County police say they were not informed of ICE activity, and Rep. Buddy Carter called for accountability if coordination failed.
  • Vigils and protests gathered community members honoring Davis as the school district offered counseling and support to students and staff.