When Tragedy Strikes Twice: Understanding the Legal and Immigration Consequences of a DWI Fatality in Texas
- becoolwithbob
- Jun 23
- 3 min read
A Heartbreaking Incident in Houston
In a devastating accident that shocked the Houston community, Joel Enrique Gonzalez Chacin, a Venezuelan national, was recently arrested and charged with intoxication manslaughter after a suspected DWI crash that tragically killed a 7-year-old girl. According to ABC13 Houston, the child was a passenger in a vehicle struck by Gonzalez Chacin, who was reportedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash.
For many, the legal aftermath of a DWI is frightening. But for immigrants—especially those without permanent legal status—the consequences can be life-altering in ways that extend beyond the criminal justice system.
What Is Intoxication Manslaughter in Texas?
Under Texas Penal Code § 49.08, intoxication manslaughter occurs when an individual operates a motor vehicle while intoxicated and causes the death of another person as a result. It’s classified as a second-degree felony, carrying potential penalties of:
2 to 20 years in prison
Fines up to $10,000
Mandatory community service
Permanent criminal record
These penalties are harsh for any defendant—but for someone without U.S. citizenship, the consequences can escalate dramatically.
The Immigration Fallout: Legal and Immigration Consequences
As an experienced DWI and immigration lawyer in Texas, I see firsthand how a criminal arrest can quickly trigger immigration enforcement actions, especially for noncitizens.
In cases like this, the suspect may face:
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) detainers
Detention in immigration custody after the criminal case concludes
Removal (deportation) proceedings
Bars to future immigration benefits, including green card eligibility, asylum, or naturalization
Aggravated felony charges under federal immigration law, which can eliminate many forms of relief
The U.S. immigration system considers some criminal offenses—particularly those involving violence, death, or substance abuse—as triggers for inadmissibility or deportability under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA).
A Cautionary Tale for Immigrant Communities
While the tragedy itself deserves careful attention and compassion for the family involved, this case also illustrates a harsh reality: a single lapse in judgment behind the wheel can destroy a future.
For immigrants—whether undocumented, on a visa, or even green card holders—DWI-related offenses like intoxication manslaughter can put legal status, family unity, and decades of hard work at risk.
That’s why our legal team advises:
Never drive under the influence.
Know your rights if you’re arrested.
Seek legal counsel immediately—not just from a criminal defense lawyer, but from someone who understands how DWI and immigration law intersect.
Avoid talking to police or ICE without your lawyer present.
Preserve all evidence that could help build a defense, including video, receipts, and witness testimony.
What Can Be Done to Defend Against These Charges?
While the charges against Mr. Gonzalez Chacin are severe, every person accused of a crime is presumed innocent until proven guilty. As an attorney, I emphasize that every defendant—immigrant or not—deserves a fair trial and a strong legal defense.
Key areas a defense attorney may explore include:
Challenging the field sobriety test or breathalyzer results
Questioning probable cause for the traffic stop
Determining whether the accused was truly at fault
Investigating whether Miranda rights were properly read
Exploring any mental health or medical defenses
When immigration status is a factor, we also work to delay removal proceedings, fight ICE detainers, and petition for relief such as cancellation of removal or withholding of deportation.
Final Thoughts: Tragedy, Law, and the Human Cost
This case is a sobering reminder of how quickly lives can unravel—both for the victims and for the accused. For immigrants living in the U.S., particularly in Texas, where DWI enforcement is aggressive, the legal system can be unforgiving.
Our law firm stands ready to defend those caught in this legal and immigration crossfire. Whether you’re facing a first-time DWI or a more serious charge like intoxication manslaughter, we fight to protect your rights, your status, and your future.
📞 If you or someone you love has been arrested for DWI in Texas—especially if immigration status is involved—don’t wait. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.
📍 Restrepo Law Firm📧 ruben@restrepodwilawyer.com📱 (713) 714-7330
Comments