Grand Rapids, Michigan – The Michigan State Police, working in conjunction with Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker, have uncovered details surrounding the tragic death of 25-year-old Ruby Garcia on US-131 in Grand Rapids. Brandon Ortiz-Vite, also 25, has confessed to the crime, shedding light on his relationship with Garcia.
During a press conference, Becker revealed that Ortiz-Vite and Garcia were involved in a romantic relationship, shedding light on the motive behind the heinous act. Ortiz-Vite admitted to shooting Garcia multiple times in her car before abandoning her on the busy highway, leading to her untimely death.
Ortiz-Vite, a Mexican national, had been previously deported in 2020 but had reentered the United States illegally. He now faces charges of felony murder, open murder, carjacking, and weapons offenses. This tragic incident highlights the prevalence of domestic violence homicides in recent years, emphasizing the need for support for victims in similar situations.
Garcia’s family confirmed that she and Ortiz-Vite were engaged in a relationship, with Ortiz-Vite citing a heated argument on the night of the incident. Becker took the opportunity during the press conference to highlight resources available to women facing similar circumstances, including Puertas Abriertas, an organization specializing in assisting Hispanic women in cases of domestic violence.
Founded by Andrea Inostroza, Puertas Abriertas offers a range of services to help women escape dangerous situations, serving over 1,500 clients in West Michigan. Inostroza emphasized the importance of providing support to the underserved Hispanic population, offering assistance with relocation, legal protection orders, and other needs, no matter the severity.
The tragic loss of Garcia has underscored the continued need for organizations like Puertas Abriertas in communities like Grand Rapids. The devastating impact of domestic violence in Hispanic communities highlights the importance of education and outreach to prevent such tragedies in the future.
Puertas Abriertas remains a critical resource for all individuals facing abusive relationships or human trafficking, regardless of race, gender, or age. Their 24-hour emergency hotline stands as a beacon of support in times of crisis, ensuring that help is always within reach for those in need.