Escondido, December 6, 2025
Hector Amador Balderas, 44, has pleaded not guilty to a felony hit-and-run charge after fatally striking 11-year-old Aiden Antonio Torres De Paz in Escondido, California. Witnesses report Aiden was retrieving a soccer ball when the incident occurred. Balderas has a history of deportation and the case raises questions about immigration policies in relation to community safety. The Escondido Police Department is seeking information to aid their ongoing investigation.
Escondido, California
Man Pleads Not Guilty in Fatal Hit-and-Run of 11-Year-Old
Hector Amador Balderas, 44, is charged with fatally striking Aiden Antonio Torres De Paz and fleeing the scene.
On December 3, 2025, Hector Amador Balderas, 44, pleaded not guilty to a felony count of hit-and-run causing death in Vista Superior Court. He is accused of fatally striking 11-year-old Aiden Antonio Torres De Paz with his vehicle on November 26, 2025, near East Washington Avenue and Hickory Street in Escondido, California, and fleeing the scene. Witnesses reported that Aiden was retrieving a soccer ball from the street when the incident occurred. He was transported to Rady Children’s Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries on Thanksgiving morning.
Federal immigration officials have stated that Balderas had been deported from the United States four times before the incident. Following his arrest, the Department of Homeland Security issued an immigration detainer, requesting that local law enforcement notify federal authorities if Balderas is released from custody. However, California’s sanctuary policies have led to a dispute between state and federal officials regarding the enforcement of this detainer. Governor Gavin Newsom’s office has stated that California honors federal criminal warrants, but the refusal to honor the detainer has been a point of contention.
The Escondido Police Department has expressed gratitude for the community’s assistance in identifying and arresting the suspect. Police Chief Ken Plunkett emphasized the importance of community trust and partnership in resolving this tragic incident. The department continues to seek additional information or surveillance footage that could shed further light on the circumstances of the hit-and-run. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Escondido Police Officer Paul Smyth at 760-839-4423.
Understanding the Incident
The tragic incident serves as a painful reminder of the risks children face while engaging in normal recreational activities. In Escondido, community members are encouraged to participate actively in ensuring their neighborhoods remain safe. This is an opportunity to highlight the critical role of vigilance and community awareness in preventing future tragedies.
Legal Ramifications
Hector Amador Balderas has entered a plea of not guilty in connection with the fatal hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of Aiden. The legal proceedings are expected to unfold publicly, drawing attention to the implications of such violent acts and their consequences. The legal system will not only address the actions of the accused but also examine the broader societal factors at play.
Immigration Aspects
The incident raises significant questions regarding immigration policies and public safety. Balderas’ deportation history adds a layer of complexity to the case. While immigration reform is a contentious topic, it’s important to analyze its impacts on community safety, especially in localized contexts like Escondido. Balderas’ previous deportations illustrate the challenges faced by law enforcement and immigration officials when navigating sanctuary laws.
Community Involvement
The Escondido Police Department has expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts of the community in bringing forth critical information about the incident. The challenge now lies in fostering an ongoing dialog on public safety that encourages community members to report suspicious activity while maintaining trust in law enforcement. Such partnerships are vital in building resilient neighborhoods where families can thrive without fear.
Continuing the Conversation
As investigations proceed, it’s crucial for the community to stay engaged in discussions about safety and justice. Local business leaders and community activists can lead initiatives designed to promote awareness surrounding child safety and responsible driving practices. By coming together, Escondido can emerge from this dark chapter with renewed commitments to making the community safer for everyone.
Conclusion
The hit-and-run tragic case involving Hector Amador Balderas and the young victim Aiden Antonio Torres De Paz underscores the intersections of public safety, legal accountability, and immigration policy. As the legal proceedings unfold, it serves as a call for both accountability and community engagement. Residents are encouraged to actively participate in ensuring a safer environment for their children and support local businesses that work towards community resilience.
FAQ
What charges is Hector Amador Balderas facing?
Hector Amador Balderas is charged with a felony count of hit-and-run causing death in connection with the fatal incident involving 11-year-old Aiden Antonio Torres De Paz.
What is the status of the immigration detainer issued for Balderas?
The Department of Homeland Security issued an immigration detainer for Hector Amador Balderas following his arrest. However, California’s sanctuary policies have led to a dispute between state and federal officials regarding the enforcement of this detainer.
How can the public assist in the investigation?
The Escondido Police Department is seeking additional information or surveillance footage that could shed further light on the circumstances of the hit-and-run. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Escondido Police Officer Paul Smyth at 760-839-4423.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Date | November 26, 2025 |
| Victim | Aiden Antonio Torres De Paz, 11 |
| Suspect | Hector Amador Balderas, 44 |
| Charge | Felony hit-and-run causing death |
| Immigration Status | Deported four times prior to incident |
| Investigation Status | Seeking additional information; contact Officer Paul Smyth at 760-839-4423 |
Now Happening on X
- @SanDiegoPD (December 6, 2025, 1:51 AM) Update on an active police incident in San Diego with significant resources deployed to resolve safely, causing traffic delays.
- @SanDiegoPD (December 6, 2025, 4:17 AM) Final update: The ongoing situation on the freeway has concluded with the individual in custody, and traffic is reopening.
- @LosAngelesPatch (December 5, 2025, 10:58 PM) Police activity has shut down the 5 freeway in San Diego, leading to major traffic disruptions and nightmares for commuters.
- @nbcsandiego (December 4, 2025, 12:43 AM) San Diego daily news: Investigators continue examining human remains found in Southcrest, while Carlsbad advances new e-bike age restrictions for safety.
- @nbcsandiego (December 4, 2025, 5:00 AM) Police responded to a report of a father assaulting his son captured on home security footage, prompting welfare checks for the children.
- @SanDiegoPD (December 5, 2025, 8:44 PM) As of 5:40 PM, the active incident persists with SDPD and fire resources on scene to ensure a safe resolution amid traffic delays.
- @MayorToddGloria (December 2, 2025, 12:47 AM) Mayor’s desk update: New push for middle-income housing, license plate readers aid in finding a missing senior, and parking revenue funds neighborhood repairs.
- @ExtensionCat (December 6, 2025, 5:29 AM) The freeway incident delayed school pickups for hours, lasting from 11 AM until arrest at 8 PM, with multiple accidents reported.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
San Diego FC Dominates Portland Timbers in Playoff Match
San Diego County Crime Report: ATM Break-In and Human Remains Discovery
Traffic Resumes on I-5 After Hours-Long Closure Near Del Mar Heights
Interstate 5 Reopens After Police Safely Apprehend Individual
Jason Kelce Transitions from NFL Star to Media Host
Major Injury Crash Shuts Down Pacific Hwy in San Diego
Traffic Accident Near Ocean View Blvd Leaves Patient Injured
Two Injured in San Diego SR-56 Two-Vehicle Crash
Federal Authorities Evaluate Medical Transfer for Terminally Ill Drug Dealer
Armed Robbery at Sunny Spa Raises Safety Concerns in Kearny Mesa
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
