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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 R.M.: Asylum seeker held by ICE after Miami car crash
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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

Apr 14, 2026—Reported held at Broward Transitional Center awaiting immigration court
Apr 10, 2025—Detained by ICE after a state officer reported her following a Miami traffic accident
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