Trial Begins in Fatal Texas Tow Truck Crash

A witness illustrates details of the fatal crash involving tow truck driver David Zapata using a diagram in a court session in Harlingen, Texas, on July 8, 2025.

Opening statements and witness testimony began Tuesday in the trial of Cristobal Stephan Garzez, accused of killing tow truck driver David Zapata in a July 8, 2025, crash in Harlingen, Texas.

Zapata, 46, was securing a vehicle to his tow truck on the expressway shoulder when a white Dodge Ram allegedly struck him and fled, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

Witnesses testified that the truck veered onto the shoulder despite a clear lane. Driver Joel Ruiz said he stopped to call 911 and found Zapata dead. Coworker Sergio Ortega testified that the tow truck’s emergency lights were flashing, although he acknowledged Zapata was wearing dark clothing without a reflective vest.

Officers described Garzez as appearing intoxicated. Investigators reportedly found blood and human tissue on his truck. A criminal complaint states Garzez told officers he fled because he was scared.

Garzez faces charges of intoxication manslaughter, manslaughter and possession of fentanyl, according to the indictment. Testimony was scheduled to continue Wednesday.

Source: https://www.krgv.com