Illegal immigrant driver charged with DUI after car veers off road, kills two children on bikes: police

Eri Otoniel Roblero-Perez was denied bond Monday on two counts of felony DUI resulting in death. He also faces charges of driving without a license and open container. He is currently being held at the Spartanburg County Detention Facility.

The crash happened around 12:20 p.m. Sunday along Asheville Highway at Brock Street, about three miles west of Spartanburg.

The victims were identified as 12-year-old Dereon James Robins and 9-year-old Mikhail-Lee Smith, both of Spartanburg.

Dereon's mother, Megan, said she was walking behind the children when the car veered toward them.

"I watched him almost hit me, and I then ran to my son while he bled to death," she said.

"Now I have to bury my own brother… on his own birthday," one of Dereon's brothers said.

Prosecutors said Roblero-Perez showed clear signs of intoxication - including slurred speech, bloodshot eyes and a strong odor of alcohol - and was unable to complete a field sobriety test or hold himself upright.

Authorities say the vehicle left the roadway at a high rate of speed before striking the children.

Another passenger was inside the car but fled the scene and has not been located.

The case has sparked outrage online and in the community, with many questioning the circumstances of the crash and calling for accountability.

"Our hearts are heavy as we lift up the families of the two young boys whose lives were tragically taken in South Carolina," Sen. Tim Scott said in a statement. "We are praying for God's comfort to surround them, and for justice to be swiftly and fully served."

He added that the tragedy reflects broader concerns over border security, saying, "This devastating loss is not an isolated tragedy-it is the direct result of Biden's open border policies, and innocent Americans are paying the price."

Family members are urging others to think twice before drinking and driving.

"If you decide to drink, stay at home. It is not a driving activity. It's not fun. It's not cool," a family member said.

Fox News Digital has reached out to the coroner's office, South Carolina Highway Patrol, and the solicitor's office for comment.