Suspect in deadly hit-and-run crash in Dormont is undocumented immigrant, police say

DORMONT, Pa. — A man charged in a hit-and-run crash that left a young musician dead in Dormont is an undocumented immigrant, Allegheny County police confirmed to Channel 11.

The crash happened Saturday night near Pioneer and West Liberty Avenues. Christian Sluka, 23, was killed.

In an update Sunday evening, police identified Saul Rivera-Ramirez, 25, as the driver. After the crash, he allegedly got out of the car and ran away from the scene.

Rivera-Ramirez was arrested and is facing several charges including homicide by vehicle and driving without a license.

Allegheny County police confirmed Monday to Channel 11 that Rivera-Ramirez is not a United States citizen and sent us the following statement:

“During their investigation, detectives learned Rivera-Ramirez is not a United States Citizen and is an undocumented immigrant. Detectives contacted U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and we would defer any further questions about Rivera-Ramirez’s immigration status to that agency.”

An ICE spokesperson sent Channel 11 the following statement:

“ERO Philadelphia can confirm that Saul Ramirez-Rivera is a noncitizen who is in the United States unlawfully.  Ramirez-Rivera was previously removed from the United States and unlawfully re-entered, without admission or parole by an immigration official. Following his arrest, ERO Philadelphia lodged an Immigration Detainer with the Allegheny County Jail. ERO Philadelphia anticipates ACJ will not honor the immigration detainer given its current policies.”

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