Suspect in Fatal Accident in Harlingen Pleads Not Guilty
· Telemundo McAllen (KTLM)
CAMERON COUNTY, Texas — Cristóbal Stephan Garzes, charged in connection with the accident that resulted in the death of David Zapata in Harlingen, has pleaded not guilty, according to new court documents. Records indicate that the formal indictment and waiver of appearance for the reading of charges were sent to defense attorney Calixto Villarreal. The attorney obtained Garzes' signature and electronically submitted the waiver within the established timeframe. As part of this process, Garzes entered a not guilty plea. According to court documents, the trial is scheduled for October 5, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. The case dates back to July 8, 2025, when 46-year-old Zapata was securing a vehicle on a tow truck platform on Interstate 2 in Harlingen and was struck. Zapata died at the scene. Authorities identified 28-year-old Garzes, a resident of Donna, as the driver involved. According to the investigation, he allegedly fled the scene after the impact and was later located and arrested. Garzes faces charges related to the accident, including intoxication manslaughter, failure to stop and render aid after a fatal accident, and possession of a controlled substance. Investigators also noted that Garzes was allegedly driving under the influence at the time of the accident, an allegation that will be part of the judicial process. The accused has denied consuming alcohol. David Zapata's family has called for justice and has used the case to raise awareness about the importance of obeying the Slow Down Move Over law, which aims to protect workers and emergency personnel on the side of the roads. With the not guilty plea entered, the case now moves toward the scheduled trial in October. Note: A formal indictment represents allegations of criminal conduct and does not constitute evidence of guilt. Every accused person is presumed innocent unless proven guilty through due process.
AI summary · Source: Telemundo McAllen (KTLM) →
