Another killing of a 15-year-old Missouri boy who begged for his life during a deadly ambush has fueled a wave of outrage, with Republican leaders pointing to the suspect’s illegal immigration status and demanding government officials support tougher border enforcement.
"Unfortunately, this is just the latest example of a Missourian killed by an illegal alien," Sen. Eric Schmitt, R-Mo., said, calling for sweeping deportation efforts.
Rep. Eric Burlison, R-Mo., said the killing underscores concerns about public safety, adding that "dangerous individuals who should not be here remain in our communities."
"Miles Young should still be alive. This is tragic," he wrote in a post on X. "Justice must be swift."
The backlash follows the arrest of Yefry Archaga-Elvir, 18, who is accused of luring Miles Young, 15, into a planned ambush before chasing him down and shooting him, according to court documents. The Honduran national is charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action and is being held without bond on a federal immigration detainer.
A second suspect, Praize King, 18, is also charged with first-degree murder and armed criminal action in connection with the killing. At least one additional suspect, believed to be a juvenile, has not been publicly identified.
Missouri State Treasurer Vivek Malek called the killing "another Missouri family destroyed," saying the teen was "executed while begging for his life" and warning the case shows "exactly why we must cut off the incentives that keep illegals here."
He added that Missourians are "outraged" the suspect was in the state, arguing the crime "never would’ve happened" if he had not been in the country.
Rep. Mark Alford, R-Mo., said, "A Missouri teen begged for his life. He was killed by an ILLEGAL alien," adding, "Our children should NEVER fear murder on our streets."
Schmitt also questioned the broader response, asking, "Where are the protests for Miles Young? Where is the outrage when American sons and daughters are murdered by illegal aliens who have no business in our country?"