The Trump administration is citing a fatal hit-and-run incident involving a person without legal status that occurred in Urbana earlier this year as part of an Immigration and Customs Enforcement operation in Chicago and Illinois.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced Monday the launch of Operation Midway Blitz to target criminals in the state without legal status.
The DHS said in the news release that the action is being taken in honor of Katie Abraham, a 20-year-old woman who was killed in a crash outside Carle Foundation Hospital in January near the intersection of Coler and University Avenues.
Julio Cucul-Bol, a person without legal status from Guatemala, was charged with leaving the scene of a crash resulting in death, aggravated driving under the influence resulting in death, and reckless homicide, according to the Urbana Police Department.
In a video released by DHS last month, Katie’s father, Joe Abraham, expressed support for border security and greater restrictions on immigration.
Media reports indicate ICE arrests are occurring as part of the operation in the Chicago area.
The DHS accused Governor JB Pritzker of protecting criminals in the state illegally and “allow[ing] them to roam free on American streets.”
In a statement, Governor JB Pritzker said the operation is more about “scaring Illinoisians” than fighting crime.
Once again, this isn't about fighting crime. That requires support and coordination — yet we've experienced nothing like that over the past several weeks.
— Governor JB Pritzker (@GovPritzker) September 8, 2025
Instead of taking steps to work with us on public safety, the Trump Administration's focused on scaring Illinoisians. https://t.co/LoFPM0E4PF
Senators Dick Durbin and Tammy Duckworth echoed Pritzker’s sentiments and showed support for immigrants.
I want to speak to hardworking immigrant families for a moment.
— Senator Dick Durbin (@SenatorDurbin) September 8, 2025
I understand if you’re scared to send kids to school, go to the doctor, or report crimes to the police.
But, we STAND with you.
Please know that a majority of Americans do not support the anti-immigrant actions by…
And so it begins.
— Tammy Duckworth (@SenDuckworth) September 8, 2025
This is not about law and order—if it was, Trump would coordinate with the city and police on public safety.
Instead, he's planning to invade, intimidate and stage chaos all so he can swoop in and play the hero.
Nothing about this is normal. NOTHING. https://t.co/77KLGPCSLf