An illegal immigrant from Mexico is accused of causing a deadly head-on crash that killed a New Jersey mother and her 11-year-old daughter, despite a history of drunk driving and violent behavior.
Raul Luna-Perez, 43, has been living illegally in Red Bank, New Jersey, since early 2023, according to federal sources. Authorities say he was behind the wheel of a speeding Dodge Durango when it crossed into oncoming traffic on July 26 and struck a Nissan Sentra head-on in Lakewood.
Two Lives Lost
Maria Pleitez, 42, was killed instantly. Her youngest daughter, Dayanara Cortes, 11, died shortly after being transported to a nearby hospital. Another 11-year-old girl in the back seat was critically injured but has since been upgraded to stable condition.
Luna-Perez and two adult passengers suffered minor injuries and were released from medical care.
Blood Draw Ordered, Homicide Charges Filed
Police said Luna-Perez showed signs of intoxication at the crash scene. Blood was drawn at the hospital, and he was later charged with two counts of vehicular homicide and one count of assault by auto. More charges may follow pending toxicology results.