Oregon Faces Criticism After Issuing License to Immigrant Accused in Fatal Idaho Crash

PORTLAND, Ore. — November 22, 2025 — Oregon is under scrutiny after it was revealed that an undocumented immigrant accused of fatally striking an 8-year-old girl in Idaho was driving with a valid Oregon driver’s license despite having an active Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) warrant.

Authorities said the driver, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, was involved in a crash that resulted in the death of the young girl in Idaho. The driver was legally operating the vehicle with a license issued by Oregon, a state known for its sanctuary policies that limit cooperation with federal immigration enforcement.

According to officials, the individual had an active ICE warrant at the time of the incident, raising questions about the state’s driver licensing procedures and its policies regarding undocumented immigrants.

Oregon’s Department of Transportation issues driver licenses to undocumented immigrants under a law passed in 2019, which allows individuals without legal immigration status to obtain licenses. The policy aims to improve road safety by ensuring all drivers have passed required tests and have insurance, regardless of immigration status.

However, critics argue that the policy can lead to situations where individuals with outstanding federal warrants continue to drive legally, potentially posing risks to public safety. The fatal crash in Idaho has intensified debate over the balance between protecting immigrant communities and ensuring public security.

Officials in Idaho have expressed concern over the incident, emphasizing the tragic loss of the child and calling for a review of policies that allow individuals with active federal warrants to maintain driving privileges.

ICE has confirmed the existence of an active warrant for the driver but declined further comment due to the ongoing investigation. Local law enforcement agencies are cooperating with federal authorities to determine the circumstances leading to the crash.

The Oregon Department of Transportation has not issued a formal statement regarding the case but has previously defended its licensing program, citing improved safety outcomes and the importance of allowing all residents to legally drive.

Advocates for immigrant rights argue that denying licenses to undocumented immigrants does not prevent them from driving but instead increases the risk of unlicensed and uninsured drivers on the road. They caution against policy changes driven by isolated incidents, emphasizing the broader benefits of inclusive licensing laws.

The investigation into the crash is ongoing, with authorities examining factors such as driver behavior, vehicle condition, and road conditions at the time of the accident. The driver is currently in custody pending charges related to the fatal collision.

This case highlights the complex intersection of immigration policy, state licensing laws, and public safety concerns, a subject that continues to provoke debate in Oregon and across the country.