Man in ICE custody after alleged sexual assault, murder of 2-year-old girl

LOUISA, Va. (WWBT/Gray News) — A 29-year-old man is in ICE custody and faces murder and sexual assault charges after a 2-year-old girl died earlier this month.

The Louisa County Sheriff’s Office in Virginia said Raul Ortiz Moran is accused of killing the toddler.

The Louisa County Sheriff’s Office said the child’s mother arrived with the girl at the Goochland County Sheriff’s Office on July 4 after traveling from a home in Louisa County.

Deputies immediately began life-saving measures to save the child, but she died at the hospital.

After an investigation, the sheriff’s office obtained warrants charging Moran with second-degree murder and aggravated sexual assault.

Investigators did not reveal a cause of death.

“Raul Ortiz Moran was initially taken into custody by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) based on his immigration status,” the Louisa County Sheriff’s Office said. “... Raul Ortiz Moran remains in federal custody without bond pending Louisa County judicial proceedings.”

Louisa County Sheriff Donald Lowe called the child’s death an unimaginable tragedy.

“Our detectives have worked tirelessly to thoroughly investigate this case and ensure those responsible are held accountable. Our thoughts and prayers remain with everyone affected by this heartbreaking incident,” Lowe said.