Tucson, AZ – Samuel Lopez-Ozuna, 18, of Tucson, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges stemming from a deadly human smuggling-related crash near Arivaca on August 9, 2024. The charges include Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens for Profit Resulting in Death and Transportation of Illegal Aliens for Profit Placing Lives in Jeopardy.
The incident occurred when U.S. Border Patrol agents attempted to stop a Chevrolet Tahoe, driven by Lopez-Ozuna, for suspicion of human smuggling. Instead of yielding, Lopez-Ozuna sped up and fled, resulting in the vehicle crashing and rolling over. Seven undocumented noncitizens were being smuggled in the vehicle, all of whom were ejected during the crash. One individual died, and three others suffered serious injuries.
A conviction on any of the charges could carry a maximum sentence of life in prison.
The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations-Tucson, U.S. Border Patrol, and the Pima County Sheriff’s Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Desiree Chery and Ryan P. DeJoe of the District of Arizona.
For further updates, contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona.
