Little Rock, Arkansas – Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders and Arkansas State Police are mourning the tragic death of Jennifer Ann Morton, a dedicated nurse and respiratory therapist at Arkansas Children’s Hospital. Morton was killed in the early morning hours of September 8th when she was struck by a vehicle driven by Maynor Yair Sorto-Herrera, an illegal immigrant from Honduras. Herrera was driving under the influence when the incident occurred.
Herrera faces multiple charges, including Negligent Homicide, Battery, DUI, Violation of the Concealed Weapons Act, Reckless Driving, Driving Without a License, and Failure to Stop After an Accident with Death. According to authorities, Herrera had been previously deported from the United States in 2018 and is currently being held for U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
Calls for Accountability and Stronger Border Security
Governor Sanders expressed her sorrow over Morton’s death and condemned the circumstances that allowed Herrera to re-enter the country. “I am devastated for the loss of nurse Jennifer Ann Morton. Our state will feel the loss of this woman’s life and sends its prayers and sympathies to her entire family,” said Sanders. “We will use every tool available to prosecute the illegal immigrant who caused this senseless death, but let’s be clear: he never should have been in this country to begin with. President Biden and Vice President Harris opened our borders wide. It’s time for the federal government to step up, close the border, and end the mayhem in our communities.”
Arkansas State Police Colonel Mike Hagar also expressed his condolences to the Morton family, emphasizing the profound impact of her loss on the community. “Our hearts are heavy for the Morton family as they are devastated by the loss of Jennifer, who devoted her life to compassionate care of children,” Hagar stated. “I know our Troopers want to honor her memory by doing their part to make sure this man is held responsible for her death.”
Previous Efforts to Combat Illegal Immigration
Governor Sanders has been a vocal advocate for stronger border security measures. In response to a surge in illegal immigration, she deployed Arkansas National Guardsmen to the southern border to support Texas law enforcement. Sanders sent 80 guardsmen in the summer of 2023 and an additional 40 in the spring of 2024, reinforcing her commitment to addressing the challenges posed by illegal immigration.
The tragic death of Jennifer Ann Morton has sparked renewed calls for stronger immigration enforcement and accountability, with Arkansas officials vowing to pursue justice for her and her family. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about border security and the impact of illegal immigration on communities across the country.
