MIAMI, FL — A woman convicted of fleeing a fatal 2021 crash in Florida and attempting to cover it up has been deported after serving prison time, federal immigration officials said. Hilda Esperanza Lopez-Hernandez was removed from the United States on April 12 following her release from custody, closing a case that began with a deadly hit-and-run in Okaloosa County.
Lopez-Hernandez was behind the wheel of a red Ford Mustang when she collided with a vehicle driven by 63-year-old David Hayes. Hayes was found at the scene and pronounced dead. Instead of stopping, prosecutors said Lopez-Hernandez left the crash site and attempted to conceal her involvement.
Attempt to Evade Responsibility After Deadly Crash
According to case details, Lopez-Hernandez drove to a nearby restaurant after the collision and contacted her boyfriend. The two then switched vehicles in what investigators described as an effort to avoid detection. Authorities say neither reported the crash.
The victim’s death turned the case into a serious felony investigation, with evidence eventually leading back to Lopez-Hernandez. Her actions after the crash—including leaving the scene and attempting to hide evidence—became central to the prosecution.
In January 2023, she was convicted in Okaloosa County of hit-and-run involving a death, driving without a license, and tampering with evidence. A judge sentenced her to four years in prison.
Prior Deportation Order and Immigration Case
Immigration records show Lopez-Hernandez had already been ordered removed from the United States in 2018 after failing to appear for a scheduled immigration hearing. She had entered the country in 2014 and was released pending that court appearance, which she did not attend.
Following her prison sentence, ICE Miami took custody of Lopez-Hernandez based on that prior removal order. Officials confirmed she remained in detention until her deportation earlier this month.
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Key Points
• Hilda Esperanza Lopez-Hernandez deported April 12 after fatal 2021 hit-and-run case
• Convicted of leaving scene of crash that killed 63-year-old Florida man
• Had prior removal order dating back to 2018 before arrest and conviction
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Case Highlights Consequences of Hit-and-Run
Fatal hit-and-run cases often carry enhanced penalties due to the decision to leave injured victims without aid. Prosecutors in this case emphasized that the outcome may have been different had emergency services been contacted immediately.
The added charge of evidence tampering reflected investigators’ conclusion that Lopez-Hernandez took deliberate steps to avoid responsibility after the crash.
Current Status
Lopez-Hernandez has been deported from the United States following completion of her sentence. The criminal case in Florida has concluded, and no further proceedings are pending.
