University of South Carolina student, 21, killed in hit-and-run crash involving illegal immigrant: DHS
A tragic incident occurred near the University of South Carolina campus, where a junior student, Nathaniel “Nate” G. Baker, lost his life in a hit-and-run involving an illegal immigrant from El Salvador. The driver, Rosali I. Fernandez-Cruz, was charged with hit-and-run resulting in death, failure to give information and render aid, failure to yield the right of way, and driving without a license. At the time of the accident, Fernandez-Cruz was wanted by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and had a history of being arrested and ordered to be sent back to El Salvador.
The fatal incident took place when Fernandez-Cruz allegedly failed to yield the right of way while turning left at Blossom and Assembly streets, hitting Baker who was on a motorcycle. Baker was pronounced dead at a hospital by the Richland County Coroner’s Office. Fernandez-Cruz is accused of fleeing the scene without stopping or rendering aid to Baker. He was later detained by a Columbia Police Department officer on Greene Street, while two other men who were with him at the time of the accident also fled.
The University of South Carolina confirmed that Baker was a business major from Glen Allen, Virginia, and a member of Phi Gamma Delta fraternity. The fraternity expressed their sorrow over the loss of Baker, describing him as a leader, role model, and embodiment of their fraternity’s values. The University’s College Panhellenic Association also extended their condolences, calling it a tragedy and urging the Greek community to support each other during this difficult time.
Fernandez-Cruz is currently held at the Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center in Columbia. Authorities and organizations involved in the case, including the Columbia Police Department, ICE, DHS, and Phi Gamma Delta, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.
The heartbreaking loss of Nate Baker has left a deep impact on the University of South Carolina community, with students, faculty, and organizations coming together to mourn his untimely passing. The memory of Nate Baker will continue to live on, as his kindness, selflessness, and generosity are remembered and honored by all who knew him. May he rest in peace.
