Trump’s claim of speaking with Garcia’s family during a speech on immigration sparks outrage from the victim’s relatives
In an unsettling turn of events, the family of Ruby Garcia, a 25-year-old woman found dead beside a freeway in Grand Rapids, Michigan, expressed their shock and dismay over former President Donald Trump‘s recent speech. During an appearance in Grand Rapids, Trump claimed to have communicated with “some of her family,” a statement vehemently denied by Garcia’s relatives. Mavi Garcia, Ruby’s sister and the family spokesperson, clarified that no such interaction ever occurred, criticizing the misrepresentation on live television.
The backdrop of Trump’s address centred around immigration, specifically highlighting the March 22 murder of Ruby Garcia. Brandon Ortiz-Vite, identified as an undocumented immigrant, confessed to the crime, according to court documents. However, contrary to Trump’s narrative, Mavi Garcia emphasized that Ruby and Ortiz-Vite were merely friends, not romantically involved as suggested.
Mavi Garcia’s response to the speech was of profound disappointment, especially as Trump used her sister’s death to advocate his political stance on immigration. The family, who had sought privacy following the tragedy, especially during the funeral, felt compelled to speak out after Trump’s comments.
The conversation around Ruby Garcia’s death, according to her sister, should focus on her life and the joy she brought to those around her, rather than being overshadowed by a political agenda. Mavi Garcia lamented the emphasis on the perpetrator’s immigration status, pointing out a broader issue of selective attention to crimes based on the accused’s nationality.
As the family grapples with their loss, they urge for a respectful remembrance of Ruby’s vibrancy and generosity. Meanwhile, Ortiz-Vite faces multiple charges, including felony murder and carjacking, with his next court appearance scheduled for April 9.
This incident not only sheds light on the grief of a family mourning their loved one but also raises questions about the exploitation of personal tragedies for political gain. The Garcias’ plea for focus on Ruby’s life, rather than her death becoming a footnote in immigration debates, resonates with a call for empathy and understanding in times of loss
