Illegal Who Murdered Beloved Restaurant Owner Sentenced To Prison

A Mexican national has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for killing Matthew Carney, the owner of Nashville's Smokin Thighs restaurant, in a hit-and-run collision in June 2024. Ulises Raigoza-Martinez, an undocumented immigrant, admitted guilt to murder, theft, and tampering with evidence following the fatal incident. The sentencing occurred this week after Raigoza-Martinez pled guilty to the charges. The incident unfolded on June 19, 2024, in the parking lot of Smokin Thighs. According to law enforcement, Raigoza-Martinez was attempting to steal tools from a truck belonging to Carney when the restaurant owner confronted him. In response, Raigoza-Martinez drove his vehicle into Carney, pinning him to the hood. As the suspect made a turn, Carney was thrown from the hood and suffered fatal injuries. He was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital shortly after. Raigoza-Martinez was apprehended approximately three weeks after the incident, hiding in a Nashville motel. His arrest came after a period of evasion, during which he evaded capture despite the severity of the crime. During his court proceedings, Raigoza-Martinez required an interpreter due to language barriers. He is set to serve his 20-year sentence before potentially facing deportation. Matthew Carney, 42, was known for his vibrant personality and dedication to his community. Described in his obituary as a "joyful spirit," Carney was celebrated for his laughter and unwavering support for those around him. He enjoyed outdoor activities such as boating, rock crawling, and spending time with his dog, Mr. Kitty. Carney left behind a family including his wife, Molly, and multiple relatives, including his parents, siblings, and extended family members. The case gained national attention, particularly during former President Donald Trump's 2024 presidential campaign. Trump cited the incident as part of his broader narrative on immigration-related crime. During an August rally in Montana, he described the attack as one of the most violent crimes he had encountered, emphasizing the dangers posed by undocumented individuals. The victim's family reportedly endorsed the plea agreement that led to Raigoza-Martinez's conviction. The restaurant, which had operated for nearly a decade, ceased operations in October 2024 following Carney's death. A former manager expressed deep sorrow over the loss, stating that the closure marked the end of a cherished local establishment. Another individual involved in the incident, Adrian Diaz-Aguirre, a 31-year-old with prior criminal records, has already been deported multiple times. His presence in the vehicle with Raigoza-Martinez during the assault highlights the complex legal and social implications of the case. During a preliminary hearing in March 2024, a Nashville judge dismissed charges against Raigoza-Martinez related to vehicle theft, citing insufficient evidence. This decision sparked controversy and raised questions about the handling of cases involving undocumented individuals. Despite these legal challenges, Raigoza-Martinez ultimately faced justice through his admission of guilt. As Raigoza-Martinez begins his sentence, the focus remains on the impact of the tragedy on the community and the ongoing efforts to address issues surrounding immigration and public safety. The case continues to reflect broader societal concerns regarding the intersection of law, identity, and justice.