A man accused of causing a crash that killed a Coles County couple just last week is now the subject of an immigration detainer issued by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Authorities say 34-year-old Edwin Pacheco-Meza, a Honduran national, was behind the wheel of a large van that collided head-on with another vehicle on West Lincoln Street in Westfield. The crash claimed the lives of Michael Clayton, a member of the Coles County Board, and his wife, Gail.

According to the Illinois State Police, the crash occurred when Pacheco-Meza’s van crossed the center line and struck the Claytons’ vehicle. Both Pacheco-Meza and his 18-year-old passenger, identified as Juan Morales Martinez of Guatemala, were uninjured in the collision. Law enforcement officials later confirmed that both individuals were in the country illegally.

Pacheco-Meza has been charged with reckless homicide and aggravated driving under the influence. He was denied pre-trial release during a hearing earlier this week and is scheduled to return to court on November 17th. ICE officials say Morales Martinez is currently being processed for immigration proceedings.

State Representative Chris Miller of Hindsboro addressed the incident during a press conference in Springfield on Tuesday, emphasizing that issues related to illegal immigration extend beyond Chicago. He noted that the case highlighted growing concerns about the safety of local communities and the enforcement of immigration laws across Illinois.

The Illinois State Police continue to investigate the crash.