Undocumented Driver with DUI History Charged with Vehicular Homicide in Wisconsin
The community is mourning the sudden loss of Steven Michael Nasholm, whose life was tragically cut short on Jan. 30. Nasholm, a 35-year-old devoted husband, father, and successful trucking company owner, perished in a crash caused by an impaired driver in Rusk County, northern Wisconsin.
This devastating incident involves Jorge Sanchez-Tzanahua, a 22-year-old driver with prior DUI offenses, who was in the United States unlawfully. He had flagrantly disregarded the law by getting behind the wheel despite a revoked license.
Nasholm’s untimely departure adds to the heartrending list of sudden tragedies where illegal immigrants are involved, raising questions about the safety measures in today’s America.
A Catastrophic Night
Currently facing charges for homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle, Sanchez-Tzanahua had already been condemned by a prior OWI conviction. At the time of the crash that claimed Nasholm’s life, his license was void—per the details in the official criminal complaint.
Held in Rusk County Jail on a hefty $100,000 bond, the case against Sanchez-Tzanahua is being led by a specially appointed prosecutor.
In the wee hours of January 30, Sanchez-Tzanahua’s Jeep Grand Cherokee slammed into Nasholm’s semi. Authorities found the two vehicles at the crash scene, separated by a stark hundred yards.
Rusk County Deputy Bryce Baier noted in the report,
“[A]ll evidence of the point of impact indicated the jeep had crossed the center line into the eastbound lane causing the collision with the semi.”
The collision left Sanchez-Tzanahua with minor wounds, but Nasholm suffered critical injuries and was pronounced dead enroute to the hospital. Blood alcohol level tests revealed Sanchez-Tzanahua’s was at 0.176, well over the legal driving limit.
‘A Preventable Tragedy’
Sanchez-Tzanahua had blatantly ignored the OWI conviction mandate to install an Ignition Interlock Device in his car. Court documents disclosed his unlawful presence in the country—a three-year tenure leading up to the crash.
The refrained commentary from the Rusk County and Barron County District Attorney’s offices juxtaposes with state Rep. Janel Brandtjen’s stance, who bemoaned the “unnecessary” nature of the incident.
Brandtjen and others express disbelief over such individuals dodging deportation despite severe infractions. Following Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas’ 2021 announcement, the deportation policy for undocumented persons no longer hinges solely on their immigration status, a decision impacting local community safety.
This loss has sparked vehement debates and legislative actions, including Senate Republicans’ recently drafted Protect Our Communities From DUIs Act, aiming to curb such tragic events.
The community’s outpour of grief for Nasholm, and the frustration over the circumstances that led to his passing, continue to spark fervent discussions on immigration policies and road safety.
Navigating the Roads of Reform
Recent developments have reignited the debate on unauthorized immigrants and driving privileges in the US. As lawmakers grapple with the Protect Our Communities From DUIs Act, which seeks to bar DUI offenders from entry and deport those committing DUI within the States, the dialogue surrounding policy grows ever tenser.
President Biden’s stance on deportation has sparked controversy, reserving removal primarily for felons—an approach that excludes drunk driving as a cause unless deemed a felony.
Licensing Challenges in Wisconsin
Despite queries, it’s confirmed that Wisconsin never issued a license to the individual in question. Authorities speculate it may have been issued elsewhere since Wisconsin is one of many states that restricts licensing for unauthorized immigrants.
Gov. Tony Evers has advocated for change, pushing Wisconsin to join jurisdictions permitting licenses for undocumented immigrants, but has met resistance from the legislature. In contrast, safety concerns and agricultural workforce needs have prompted bipartisan reevaluation of this stance.
The Worker Shortage Dilemma
Republicans, facing labor scarcity, are reconsidering their viewpoints. Rep. Patrick Snyder highlights the agricultural sector’s heavy reliance on undocumented workers, urging a balanced solution.
Advocates argue licensing would enhance road safety through proper training for these drivers. Milwaukee County’s resolution reflects a push for inclusivity, emphasizing the struggles faced by immigrants without proper identification.
As campaigns intensify to lift the ban on licenses, stories surface of the undocumented struggling to navigate life and labor laws, reminding us of the sector’s dependency on their labor.
The Human Cost
A critical aspect often overshadowed in the reform narrative is the human cost. The frequency of traffic stops for driving without a license begs the question of systemic issues, yet the larger focus remains on preventing avoidable tragedies.
Amid the policy debates, let’s not forget those like Steven Michael Nasholm, whose lives were lost too soon. And consider the case of Craig Schimming—an individual whose journey was abruptly ended, raising profound questions about the consequences of our immigration and traffic laws.
It’s not just about names; it’s about lives. As the discussion on immigration reform continues, so does the need for balanced solutions that address safety, humanity, and the law.
A Clash of Speed and Tragedy
Amidst the blur of flashing lights and the wail of sirens, a story unfolded—a narrative marked by loss and the stark reality of consequences. While under the influence of meth and speeding through the streets, Juan Felix-Avendano’s Volkswagen Jetta crashed violently into a Toyota RAV4, causing severe injuries to an elderly couple and claiming the life of Craig Schimming—a 52-year-old cherished community member.
Felix-Avendano faced the gravitas of his actions with a 22-year prison sentence followed by extended supervision, as reported by Fox 6, solidifying the grievous impact of intoxicated driving.
Details of Felix-Avendano’s noncitizen status from Mexico emerged, raising questions amidst Milwaukee’s sanctuary policies, which did not result in an immigration hold—highlighted by Wisconsin Right Now despite the absence of such coverage in mainstream media narratives.
“However, because of the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Department’s policies on ICE and illegal immigrants, there is no immigration hold on Felix-Avendano,” shared Wisconsin Right Now regarding the sanctuary policies in place since 2019.
The media’s focus on Felix-Avendano as an “unlicensed driver” omitted his status, prompting a reflection on the wider discourse and reporting transparency.
This incident was not isolated, intersecting with another grim case in Wisconsin where intoxicated driving by an undocumented immigrant led to the loss of 20-year-old Johanna Pascoe, accentuating concerns over illegal immigration’s intersection with public safety.
Immigration Reform Under Scrutiny
President Biden’s border policies remain at the forefront of national debate, with a Gallup poll signifying widespread disquietude regarding the sharp rise in illegal immigration and its ramifications. The anguishing case of Laken Riley’s murder, allegedly by an unauthorized Venezuelan immigrant, only intensifies the urgency for profound policy examination.
While legislative dialogues consider extending benefits and rights to unauthorized immigrants, the aftermath on American families and communities is undeniable—manifested in the heart-rending stories of lives unexpectedly cut short.
Amid the data, reports, and political rhetoric, the essence of personal stories resonates—stories like that of Steven Michael Nasholm, whose joyous existence and whimsical humor are captured in memories cherished by loved ones, anchoring the unfolding debate in real human emotion and tragedy.
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