Mexican Citizen Faces Deportation After Killing Nashville Restaurateur
A Mexican citizen who authorities say entered the U.S. illegally in 2021 is slated for deportation proceedings after being sentenced for the killing of a Nashville restaurant owner. Ulises Raigoza-Martinez, who pleaded guilty to murder and related charges, will face U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody upon completion of his prison sentence, according to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Man Accused of Fatal Encounter at Smokin’ Thighs
The incident occurred on June 19, 2024, in the parking lot of Smokin’ Thighs, a Nashville restaurant. Investigators allege that Raigoza-Martinez stopped at the establishment with the intent to steal tools from the pickup truck belonging to the restaurant’s owner, Matt Carney. When Carney, 42, emerged from the restaurant to confront the alleged thief, authorities claim Raigoza-Martinez drove off, striking Carney with his vehicle. Reports indicate Carney was thrown from the hood of the car when Raigoza-Martinez maneuvered the vehicle, leading to critical injuries.
Carney was transported to a Nashville hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries on July 4, 2024. Police apprehended Raigoza-Martinez in South Nashville approximately two weeks later, on July 18, 2024.
Guilty Plea and Sentencing
More than two years after the fatal encounter, on July 22, 2026, Raigoza-Martinez entered a guilty plea. His convictions include murder, theft exceeding $10,000, tampering with evidence, and theft exceeding $2,500. A judge sentenced him to 20 years in prison for these offenses.
ICE Seeks Custody for Deportation
Following the sentencing, DHS confirmed that ICE has lodged an immigration detainer against Raigoza-Martinez. This request asks Tennessee officials to notify ICE before Raigoza-Martinez is released from state custody, allowing federal authorities to take him into their care for removal proceedings.
DHS Assistant Secretary Lauren Bis stated that Raigoza-Martinez “should NEVER have been in our country to commit this heinous murder.” She further affirmed the commitment to working with state and local partners in Tennessee to ensure his transfer to ICE custody after his prison term concludes, facilitating his removal from the United States.
If Tennessee authorities comply with the ICE detainer, Raigoza-Martinez will be transferred to federal immigration custody upon finishing his 20-year sentence. He will then be subject to deportation proceedings.
Background on Entry
According to DHS, Raigoza-Martinez reportedly entered the United States illegally through Texas in 2021, during the early months of the Biden administration. The agency’s pursuit of his custody for deportation underscores its stance on individuals accused of serious crimes after entering the country without authorization.
The case highlights ongoing tensions and policy debates surrounding immigration enforcement, particularly concerning individuals who commit crimes after entering the U.S. unlawfully. The detainer lodged by ICE signifies the federal government’s intention to deport Raigoza-Martinez once his legal obligations within the state’s justice system are fulfilled.
