Overview
- Ofelia Giselle Torres Hidalgo died Friday from stage 4 alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma, according to a family statement.
- Her father's Oct. 18, 2025 detention outside a Niles Home Depot prompted her public appeals that drew national attention to the case.
- An immigration judge in October found problems with the detention and Torres Maldonado was released on a $2,000 bond as his case continued.
- On Tuesday, a Chicago immigration judge conditionally granted cancellation of removal for Ruben Torres Maldonado, opening a pathway to lawful permanent residency and eventual citizenship; Ofelia attended via Zoom.
- Funeral arrangements are private as tributes and a GoFundMe continue, and DHS has maintained statements about driving-related offenses and the arrest that the family and attorneys dispute.