Grand Rapids, Michigan – Michigan State Police investigators, along with Kent County Prosecutor Chris Becker, have uncovered details about the relationship between 25-year-old Ruby Garcia and Brandon Ortiz-Vite, the man who has confessed to her murder. It has been revealed that Garcia and Ortiz-Vite were romantically involved, leading to a tragic end on US-131 in Grand Rapids.
Ortiz-Vite admitted to shooting Garcia multiple times in her car before abandoning her on the highway, according to his probable cause affidavit. A spokesperson for ICE confirmed that Ortiz-Vite, originally from Mexico, had been deported in 2020 and had reentered the United States. He now faces charges of felony murder, open murder, carjacking, and weapons violations. In addition, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services stated that he had been residing in the country illegally.
Garcia’s family disclosed that she and Ortiz-Vite had been in a relationship, and Ortiz-Vite mentioned that they were arguing on the night of the incident. Prosecutor Becker highlighted that this case is another tragic example of domestic violence-related homicide, a prevalent issue in recent years.
During a press conference, Becker emphasized the available resources for women facing similar situations to Garcia. He mentioned Puertas Abiertas, a local organization dedicated to assisting Hispanic women dealing with domestic violence. Founded by Andrea Inostroza, the organization has been instrumental in helping women like Garcia escape dangerous environments, serving approximately 1,500 clients across West Michigan.
Members of Puertas Abiertas, including Zandra Vazquez and Julieta Tornes, provide bilingual support to help women and families relocate, access basic necessities like food and clothing, obtain personal protection orders, and address various needs. Tornes highlighted the challenges within the Hispanic community, where privacy concerns often deter individuals from seeking help.
The tragic death of Garcia has underscored the ongoing need for organizations like Puertas Abiertas in Grand Rapids. Tornes expressed heartbreak over the loss within their community and emphasized the importance of outreach and education to combat domestic violence. While Puertas Abiertas primarily focuses on assisting Hispanic women, they extend their support to anyone experiencing abuse or human trafficking, regardless of race, gender, or age.
For immediate assistance, Puertas Abiertas can be reached at 616-690-8267, offering a 24-hour emergency hotline for individuals in crisis. The organization’s commitment to serving vulnerable populations remains unwavering, as they strive to provide safety and resources to those in need.