People hug each other near officers blocking a road during an immigration raid at a licensed cannabis farm on Thursday in Camarillo, California. Getty Images
A farm worker died Friday, one day after a major immigration raid at two cannabis farms in California. Authorities confirmed that around 200 workers were arrested during the operation, which took place in Camarillo and Carpinteria.
The worker who died, Jaime Alanis, had worked at the farm for 10 years picking tomatoes. His family confirmed he was injured during the raid and later passed away in the hospital.
Massive Raid Leads to Chaos
Federal officials arrived at the farms with search warrants. They were looking for undocumented immigrants. Reports say ten children were also present.
During the raid, four U.S. citizens were arrested for allegedly fighting back against officers. One person is still wanted for firing a gun during the event. Authorities have offered a $50,000 reward for information.
The situation quickly became chaotic. Protesters gathered outside the farms. They demanded answers and tried to support their family members.
Violence and Smoke Add to Fear
Crowds stood face-to-face with officers in full gear. People shouted and pleaded. Suddenly, green and white smoke filled the air. This forced many to leave the area. It’s unclear if tear gas or other chemicals were released.
Ventura County emergency crews responded to 911 calls. They confirmed that three people were taken to the hospital after struggling to breathe.
Alanis Injured While Hiding
Family members said Alanis called his wife in Mexico during the raid. He told her he was hiding with others. Later, they learned he had fallen from a 30-foot height and was badly hurt.
His brother-in-law, Juan Duran, spoke tearfully about the moment they heard Jaime was in the hospital.
Elizabeth Strater, a United Farm Workers leader, confirmed Alanis died from the injuries caused by his fall.
Company Responds to the Incident
The farm, known as Glass House, grows vegetables and cannabis. It is fully licensed and claims it always follows hiring laws. In a statement, the company said it had no idea minors were present and is now helping workers get legal support.
They added that federal agents arrived with valid warrants.
Families Search for Answers
Even the day after the raid, dozens of people waited outside the farm. Some hoped to retrieve cars. Others were still trying to find missing loved ones.
One woman, whose son worked at the farm, said agents took phones from workers and made them delete videos. Her son told her officers marked hands with ink to identify immigration status.
Another woman, Maria Servin, said she hasn’t seen her son since the raid. He is undocumented and worked at the farm for 18 years. Servin regrets not helping him get legal papers.
“I just wish I had done more,” she said through tears.
