An illegal immigrant from Mexico has been accused of killing a 25-year-old Michigan woman in a drunken carjacking attempt – and is awaiting arraignment on an open murder charge, according to a report.
Ruby Garcia, 25, of Grand Rapids, was found dead with apparent gunshot wounds on the southbound lanes of US-131 about 11:40 p.m. Friday, Fox 17 reported.
Although Michigan State Police have not released information about a suspect in custody, he was identified by The Midwesterner as Brandon Ortiz-Vite, a 25-year-old illegal immigrant from Puebla, Mexico.
The connection between Ortiz-Vite and the victim was unclear.
“He is currently in custody that’s all we know as of right now and he is/was here illegally,” said Ruby Garcia’s sister, Mavi.
He is expected to be arraigned on charges of homicide/open murder, carjacking, felony firearm, illegally carrying a concealed weapon, operating while intoxicated, and driving on a suspended or revoked license, according to records cited by the news outlet.
Mavi Garcia recalled her late sister as “a great person all around.”
“She would brighten up the room with her beautiful smile and laugh,” she told The Midwesterner. “She loved to travel, was dedicated to her work and enjoyed being with her family on her free time.”
Ruby loved plants and worked at a local greenhouse, Fox 17 reported.
“She was a great daughter, sister, aunt and friend,” the grieving sister told the outlet. “She will be remembered as being full of life and laughter, those who were around her would know she was silly and made everyone laugh.”
Garcia added: “Her loss has impacted the lives of many people. Her life was taken too soon. She deserved to live life, travel the world, have kids and follow her dreams.”
She declined to comment about the relationship between his sister and Ortiz-Vite.
“He is currently in custody that’s all we know as of right now and he is/was here illegally,” Garcia said.
A State Police rep told the outlet that investigators hope to release additional information about the case shortly.
Ruby’s family has launched a GoFundMe account to help cover the cost of her funeral.
“As you all know, our precious sister was taken from us on the night of 3/22/24. Due to the sudden loss, we have unexpected finances so we would like to open this account and ask for any donations to help give her the services she deserves,” they wrote in the fundraiser.
“Thank you to everyone that has supported us through these tough times, we appreciate all the love,” the family added.