Fresno tow operator waives fees for ICE-detained drivers as local residents organize aid

Ramiro Basurto absorbs a loss of up to $700 each time he tows a vehicle abandoned by an individual detained by federal immigration agents in Fresno.

The operator of Buena Vista Towing, which he founded in 2019, waives his service fees for drivers detained during the current enforcement action. He estimates that he tows up to four vehicles daily at no cost to the owners. Basurto, who is originally from Mexico, cites the high price of diesel at $8.49 per gallon and the lost work hours as primary financial burdens. He stated that he offers the free service because he is a child of immigrants and understands the difficulty of the situation. "I do it because I am one of them," Basurto said, adding that he does not want to leave his community alone.

The federal operation, initiated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement on October 5, is expected to last 45 days and covers a large portion of California. More than 100 people have been detained so far, including farmworkers, gardeners, and construction laborers. Data indicates that the majority of individuals arrested since the start of the current administration lack criminal records. Unocumented residents make up 12% of the population in Fresno County, a figure that totals approximately 124,000 people.

Community members in Kerman and Fresno have organized immediate support networks to assist those who fear leaving their homes. A Kerman resident who sells tamales and hot beverages in the early morning prepared 500 meals consisting of chicken, rice, beans, and corn tortillas for local residents. She plans a larger food distribution for October 20. A Fresno housewife provides free grocery shopping and school pickup services for families who avoid public spaces. A small market owner in Madera offers free deliveries and has posted volunteers to watch the entrance to prevent agents from entering the store.

Gus Gutiérrez, a Fresno coach and social media influencer known as Coach Gus, monitors ICE activity in the region for his 44,000 Facebook followers. His posts, which include links to legal aid and food resources, have generated more than 11 million visits. Gutiérrez, who lived without legal status for 25 years, travels to areas including Visalia, Stockton, Reedley, and Mendota to gather information on vehicle sightings and fund-raising campaigns. He said the community has filled a void left by government authorities, who have been slow to act or limited in their options.

Local organizations such as Centro La Familia, Faith in the Valley, the United Farm Workers Foundation, and CIVIIC are providing legal assistance and food. In Kerman, Mayor María Pacheco recently convinced ICE agents to leave the city, an event that went viral on social media. Basurto, who worked in the fields in the past, bought 40 dozens of eggs at a Fresno Costco last weekend and gave them away. He relies on friends for fuel money and continues to wait for service calls in a fast food restaurant parking lot in downtown Fresno.