Struggles Mount for Survivor of Francis Scott Key Bridge Collapse
BALTIMORE — Two years after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse sent shockwaves through the region, the consequences of this tragic event are still profoundly felt. For Zoila Guerra Sandoval, the ordeal has evolved from a painful memory into a harrowing fight for her right to remain in the United States and keep her family intact.
Personal Loss and Immigration Challenges
Sandoval lost her partner, Jose Mainor López, in the early hours of the collapse, and now, alongside her grief, she faces the imminent threat of deportation. The changes in immigration policy have left her grappling with broken promises made to her family in the wake of this devastating tragedy.
A Heartbreaking News Spread
On that fateful morning, news of the disaster spread rapidly across the area. Sandoval has vivid memories of the moment she learned that López, the father of her young daughter Deini, was among the victims. The shock and sorrow were instantaneous and overwhelming.
Breaking the News
In the days following the collapse, Sandoval found herself at a loss for words, struggling to explain the enormity of the tragedy to her young child. Ultimately, it was Deini’s stepmother who had to deliver the devastating news that her father had been lost to the waters.
Facing Parenthood Alone
Following López’s death, Sandoval took on the role of a single parent for her now 8-year-old daughter. While Deini is a U.S. citizen by birth, Sandoval’s immigration status remains unresolved, putting her and her child’s future at risk.
Temporary Protection Offers Hope
In the wake of the tragedy, the Biden administration initially provided temporary protected status and deferred action for the families of the victims. For Sandoval, this gesture represented a crucial lifeline. It offered her a glimmer of hope amidst her profound loss.
Shifting Fortunes and Legal Battles
However, earlier this year, that hope dimmed as the administration reversed its course. Sandoval was issued a notice to appear in immigration court on July 30, casting uncertainty over her situation. Her attorney, Rachel Girod, explained that delays in processing Sandoval’s application contributed to this predicament, alleging the current administration mishandled her case.
Preparing for Court
Girod highlighted procedural deficiencies throughout the previous and current administrations, but the current threat of deportation looms large, potentially separating Sandoval from her daughter. Girod’s legal team is preparing a robust defense for the upcoming hearing, determined to present a compelling case that will protect Sandoval’s right to stay in the country.
Hope Amid Uncertainty
Even as her court date approaches, Sandoval remains focused on her daughter’s future. She expresses a desire for Deini to remain in the U.S., should she be forced to return to Guatemala, hoping her daughter can develop and seize better opportunities. In her heart, Sandoval holds onto hope, stating her faith helps her believe that a favorable outcome is possible.
