ICE Arrests Ecuadorian National Following Fatal Hit-and-Run Conviction

WEST BRIDGEWATER, Mass. — Federal immigration authorities have taken into custody an Ecuadorian national convicted in connection with a 2023 hit-and-run crash on Route 24 that claimed the life of a Raynham woman.

Officials with ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Boston confirmed the arrest of Juan Leonardo Parra Altamirano following his release from state custody. Altamirano’s convictions include vehicular homicide by negligent operation and leaving the scene of personal injury and death.

Key Witness & Official Statements

1. Law Enforcement Response

Spokesperson, Massachusetts State Police:

“Investigators arriving at the northbound lanes of Route 24 found a catastrophic scene involving a disabled vehicle engulfed in flames and a debris field stretching across travel lanes. While one driver fled the scene, physical evidence—specifically a front bumper assembly containing a license plate—was recovered mere feet from the primary impact zone, immediately pointing investigators toward the suspect vehicle.”

2. Prosecutors & Court Statements

Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office:

“At approximately 10:30 p.m. on April 3, 2023, a 2008 Toyota Scion tC collided with a 2015 Honda Accord. The impact left the Honda disabled in a live travel lane with its lights rendered inoperable. Seconds later, an approaching pickup truck struck the disabled car. The driver of the Scion exited his car, assessed the situation, and then chose to flee rather than render aid.”

3. Suspect’s Admission Upon Surrender

Court Prosecutor (Arraignment Hearing):

“During questioning after turning himself in at the Middleborough Barracks, Mr. Altamirano admitted to being behind the wheel during the collision. He acknowledged stepping out of his vehicle and seeing the damage before driving off, stating to investigators that he panicked and fled because of his undocumented status.”

4. Federal Immigration Enforcement

ICE ERO Boston Representative:

“When individuals commit serious motor vehicle offenses that result in the loss of human life, federal law mandates immigration enforcement. Following the completion of his criminal sentence with the Massachusetts Department of Correction, ERO officers lodged an immigration detainer and took Mr. Altamirano into custody to initiate formal removal proceedings.”

Incident Summary Breakdown

Detail	Verification Info
Victim	Erpharo Gilbert, 46, of Raynham, MA
Defendant	Juan Leonardo Parra Altamirano (33 at time of arrest), native of Ecuador residing in Brockton
Location	Route 24 Northbound, West Bridgewater, MA
Date & Time	April 3, 2023, approximately 10:30 p.m.
Vehicles Involved	2008 Toyota Scion tC (Altamirano), 2015 Honda Accord (Gilbert), Ford Pickup Truck
Convictions	Motor vehicle homicide (negligent manslaughter), leaving the scene of personal injury/death
Current Status	In federal custody under ICE ERO Boston facing deportation