Sergio Josue Palomera from Chula Vista admitted in federal court to charges stemming from the transportation of two undocumented immigrants who died following a high-speed pursuit. Palomera crashed his car while attempting to evade the U.S. Border Patrol at speeds over 110 mph.
The incident occurred on October 22, 2024, when Border Patrol agents observed Palomera loading a man and a woman near the U.S.–Mexico border in Otay Mesa. The car, later seen traveling on State Route 905, was pursued by an agent who initiated lights and sirens in an attempt to stop Palomera.
According to the plea agreement, Palomera initially appeared to yield but then accelerated, drove through a red light, and re-entered the highway. The vehicle, exceeding 110 mph in a 65-mph zone, soon lost control and rolled over. The female passenger was ejected and died instantly, while the male passenger succumbed to head injuries later in the hospital.
Palomera is set to be sentenced on July 2, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Todd W. Robinson. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Fawcett is prosecuting the case.
Palomera faces charges under Title 8, U.S.C., Section 1324(a)(1)(A)(ii) and (B)(iv), carrying a maximum penalty of death or life imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. The case was investigated by the United States Border Patrol.