Camarillo, California — A longtime farmworker has died after a federal immigration raid turned chaotic at a farm in Ventura County. The man, identified by family as 57-year-old Jaime Alanis, fell from a greenhouse roof while trying to escape the raid and later died at the hospital.
This heartbreaking incident has sparked outrage from community members, workers’ rights groups, and immigrant advocates.
A Normal Workday Turns Tragic
The raid happened on Thursday, July 10, at Glass House Farms, a large agricultural site that grows both cannabis and vegetables. Federal agents from ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) and CBP (Customs and Border Protection) arrived early in the day to carry out a criminal investigation.
Witnesses say the situation quickly became intense. As officers moved in, workers started running in panic. Some people climbed onto rooftops to hide or get away. That’s when Jaime Alanis reportedly fell from the top of a greenhouse, about 30 feet high.
He was rushed to Ventura County Medical Center with serious injuries, including a broken neck. He passed away the following day while on life support.
Who Was Jaime Alanis?
Jaime had worked on California farms for more than ten years. According to his niece, Yesenia Duran, he was quiet, hardworking, and supported his family in Mexico by sending money home every month.
“He just wanted to work,” she said. “He wasn’t hurting anyone.”
His death is believed to be the first fatality connected to an immigration raid under new enforcement policies.
Hundreds Detained, Community in Shock
During the operation, officers detained around 200 workers, many of whom are believed to be undocumented. Four U.S. citizens were also arrested for allegedly interfering with the raid. Federal agents reported finding several unaccompanied minors on-site, raising concerns about possible child labor or trafficking.
In response, a California judge has ordered ICE to stop using aggressive tactics, like racial profiling or denying people access to lawyers.
Protests Erupt, Questions Remain
Soon after the raid, local residents and advocacy groups gathered in protest. Video footage showed smoke grenades, tear gas, and loud clashes between protesters and officers. One protester allegedly fired a gun; the FBI is now offering a $50,000 reward for information.
Community leaders are calling for an investigation into the raid and Jaime’s death, saying that no one should die just for showing up to work.
Glass House Farms Responds
In a statement, Glass House Farms said federal agents had valid warrants and that the company follows the law. They denied hiring minors and said they are now offering legal help to their employees who were affected.
What Happens Next?
Health and labor officials are now looking into the situation. Investigations will likely focus on both the company and how the raid was carried out. Immigrant support groups are pushing for stronger protections for farmworkers, many of whom play a major role in feeding the country.
Jaime Alanis’s family is asking for justice — and for no more families to go through what they are now facing.
