A Tucson courtroom was filled with emotion as a judge sentenced a teen whose actions after a fatal crash left a grieving family demanding justice—and reignited debate over accountability and immigration status.

18-year-old Alexis Eduardo Ibarra-Guerrero, who authorities say was in the country illegally on an overstayed visa, was sentenced to 2½ years in prison for a hit-and-run that killed 75-year-old Sally Alcaraz Rodriguez. The case, reported by 13 News, has drawn significant attention not only for the tragedy itself, but for the circumstances surrounding the defendant.

The incident occurred on November 3, 2025, as Rodriguez walked through her Tucson neighborhood on her way to work. A longtime caregiver, she was described by family as the foundation of their lives—a woman who spent years helping others.

Police say Ibarra-Guerrero, who also did not have a valid driver’s license, struck Rodriguez with his vehicle. But what followed became central to the case.

According to investigators, dashcam footage showed the teen getting out of his car, observing Rodriguez lying injured in the road—and then driving away. Court findings later revealed that Rodriguez had been carried on the vehicle for several blocks before falling or being forced off, leaving her fatally injured in the street.

Ibarra-Guerrero turned himself in 10 days later and admitted to leaving the scene. Prosecutors noted there was no evidence the crash itself was intentional, meaning he was not charged with causing her death. Instead, he pleaded guilty to leaving the scene of a crash involving death or serious injury.

Still, the facts surrounding the case—including his immigration status—were highlighted during sentencing. The judge specifically noted that Ibarra-Guerrero was in the U.S. on an overstayed visa, effectively making him unlawfully present at the time of the crash.

For Rodriguez’s family, the legal distinctions did little to ease their pain.

In court, her daughter described her as “the heart of our family,” while other relatives urged the judge to impose a sentence that reflected the seriousness of the loss and the decision to flee.

The defense maintained that the crash was an accident and emphasized the teen’s lack of prior criminal history, arguing that panic and poor judgment led to his actions afterward.

Ultimately, the judge handed down a 2½-year sentence, with credit for time already served. After completing his sentence, Ibarra-Guerrero could face deportation proceedings or supervised release, depending on federal authorities.

For the victim’s family, the sentencing brings some closure—but also a lasting reminder of how one moment, compounded by a decision to run, can forever change lives.