Illegal immigration continues to be a pressing issue in Texas, with recent events highlighting the serious consequences of lax border enforcement. The tragic death of 18-year-old Ava Moore, serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by individuals unlawfully present in our country. 

Moore was killed in a hit-and-run incident on Grapevine Lake over Memorial Day weekend. The suspects, Daikerlyn Alejandra Gonzalez Gonzalez and Maikel Coello Perozo, both Venezuelan nationals, were arrested in Dallas. Authorities confirmed they entered the U.S. illegally in recent years and were released after being processed. At the time of their arrest, both had packed suitcases, suggesting they intended to flee the country. 

This incident is not an isolated case. According  to the Texas Department of Public Safety, over 577,000 criminal offenses have been committed by illegal aliens throughout their criminal careers in Texas. These offenses include serious crimes such as homicide, assault, burglary, drug offenses, kidnapping, theft, robbery, sexual assault, and weapons violations. Of these, more than 254,000 resulted in convictions. 

The impact of illegal immigration on public safety is evident across the state. In El Paso, for example, the Department of Public Safety arrested over 200 illegal immigrants for state crimes, including rioting and assaulting public servants. These individuals were from various countries, including Venezuela, Guatemala, Ecuador, Colombia, Cuba, Nicaragua, Honduras, and El Salvador. 

Despite these alarming statistics, many continue to downplay the clear connection between illegal immigration and crime. However, the data is clear: individuals unlawfully present in the country are committing crimes that endanger the safety and well-being of Texas residents.

As we mourn the loss of Ava Moore, let her memory serve as a catalyst for meaningful change. We owe it to her and to all Texans to take decisive action to address the ongoing threat posed by illegal immigration.