María Alejandra R.M.: Asylum seeker held by ICE after Miami car crash
María Alejandra Rivas Martínez, 19, was driving her girlfriend to a medical appointment when her car was rear-ended in Miami, leading a state officer to alert ICE and have her detained despite a pending asylum case.
Apr 14, 2026Miami, FLCountry of origin: Venezuela

María Alejandra Rivas Martínez, a 19-year-old Venezuelan, was detained by ICE on April 10 after a traffic accident in Miami, where a truck rear-ended her car while she was driving her girlfriend to a medical appointment. A state police officer notified ICE after reviewing her identification during the accident report. Rivas Martínez entered the U.S. legally in 2019 on a tourist visa at age 13 and currently holds a valid work permit, a Florida driver's license, and a pending asylum case. She was held for two days before being transferred to the Broward Transitional Center in Pompano Beach, where she awaits an immigration hearing. Her mother, Eliza Martínez, said the family is distressed and considers the situation unjust. Her family, including her parents and partner, has started a fundraiser to help cover legal costs.
Timeline
Tags
Sources
- Joven venezolana bajo custodia del ICE tras sufrir accidente de tránsito en Miami
Alertas 24·Apr 14, 2026·archived copy
- Cactus 24
- ICE detuvo a venezolana de 19 años tras sufrir accidente de tránsito, un camión había chocado su carro
Caraota Digital·Apr 13, 2026
- Venezolano con solicitud de asilo fue detenido en Florida durante una parada de tráfico
La Patilla·Apr 11, 2026·archived copy
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