Police in El Paso are working to identify the driver of a dark-colored sedan involved in a hit-and-run that killed 59-year-old Jesus Flores Garcia, who was in a wheelchair, early Sunday morning. Authorities say the vehicle hit Garcia while heading south on North Zaragoza just after 2 a.m., then fled the scene. Garcia was transported to a hospital but did not survive his injuries.
Whenever I hear about a case like this, I think about how critical it is to uncover every available detail—especially when a driver leaves the scene.
How Can the Hit-and-Run Driver Be Identified?
One of the first steps investigators typically take is canvassing the area for surveillance footage. Businesses or homes near North Zaragoza may have captured part of the crash or the fleeing vehicle. Investigators may also analyze debris from the scene, such as pieces of the vehicle’s body or lighting components, which can help narrow down the make and model. In some cases, tips from the public play a pivotal role, especially if someone noticed a dark sedan with new damage or behaving suspiciously around the time of the crash.
Could Distraction or Fatigue Have Played a Role?
Once the driver is identified, it will be important to determine whether distraction or fatigue contributed to the crash. Investigators may review the driver’s phone records to see if they were texting or calling around the time of the collision.
Why Ask These Questions?
Leaving the scene of a fatal accident is serious. A full investigation into this accident will not only determine who was behind the wheel, but also whether additional factors like distraction or fatigue played a role. In my experience, it’s not uncommon for overlooked evidence to emerge and completely shift the understanding of what happened. Finding this evidence is also an important step in providing answers to those affected by the incident.