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Man in ICE custody charged with Louisa Co. murder of 2-year-old child

Man in ICE custody charged with Louisa Co. murder of 2-year-old child

Raul Ortiz Moran faces charges in Louisa County of second-degree murder and aggravated sexual assault. Photo: Contributed/Louisa Co. Sheriff's Office


CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (CVILLE RIGHT NOW) – The Louisa County Sheriff’s Office has charged 29-year-old Raul Ortiz Moran of Mexico, who is currently in ICE Custody, with second-degree murder in the July 4 death of a 2-year-old child, the sheriff’s office announced Tuesday.

The investigation started after a woman brought her unresponsive daughter to the Goochland County Sheriff’s Office around 3:10 p.m. that day from a residence in the 1500 block of Owens Creek Rd. in Louisa County.

Deputies with the Goochland County Sheriff’s Office immediately began life-saving measures in an effort to save the child, and Emergency Medical Services arrived shortly after and assumed care.

The child was transported to Bon Secours St. Mary’s Hospital in Henrico County where she was later pronounced dead.

The body was taken to the Chief Medical Examiner as part of an investigation that led warrants against Moran.

He was originally taken into ICE custody on his immigration status and now faces charges in Louisa County of second-degree murder and aggravated sexual assault.

He remains in federal custody without bond pending Louisa County judicial proceedings.

“This is an unimaginable tragedy involving the death of a young child,” Sheriff Donald Lowe said in a statement. “Our detectives have worked tirelessly to thoroughly investigate this case and ensure those responsible are held accountable. Our thoughts and prayers remain with everyone affected by this heartbreaking incident.”

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