What started as a routine job for a tow truck driver on a Texas expressway turned into a heartbreaking tragedy.
The man responsible? A drunk driver who now faces multiple charges after fleeing the scene.
Tow Truck Operator Killed While Doing His Job
It was around 5 p.m. on Tuesday when 46-year-old David Zapata, a tow truck operator for Steel Towing, was doing what he’d done countless times before—securing a vehicle on the side of Expressway 83 near Bass Boulevard in Harlingen.
Zapata had parked safely on the shoulder and was outside his truck when a white Dodge Ram came barreling toward him.
Driver Fails to Slow Down and Hits Zapata
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the driver of the Dodge Ram, Cristobal Stephen Garzez, failed to slow down or move over—an action required by Texas law when approaching emergency or roadside vehicles.
Tragically, the impact was so violent that Zapata was killed instantly and cut in half in the crash.
Suspect Flees the Scene but Doesn’t Get Far
Garzez, a 28-year-old man from Donna, Texas, didn’t stick around to help.
He reportedly fled the scene after the crash, leaving chaos and devastation behind.
However, DPS officers quickly located him not far from the site and took him into custody.
Arrest and Charges Filed Against Garzez
Garzez was booked into Cameron County Jail shortly after his arrest. Authorities have hit him with several serious charges, including:
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Intoxication manslaughter
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Failure to slow down or move over causing death
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Failure to stop and render aid
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Possession of a controlled substance
Community Shocked by Senseless Death
Locals and fellow roadside workers were deeply shaken by the news.
Zapata was simply doing his job—helping a stranded vehicle—when his life was taken by someone who, by all accounts, should not have been behind the wheel.
His death is another painful reminder of the dangers roadside operators face every day, especially when drivers fail to follow “Move Over, Slow Down” laws that are in place to protect them.
The Video That’s Going Viral
A video posted online showing the aftermath of the crash has gone viral, capturing the intense reaction from bystanders and the swift response by authorities.
Though difficult to watch, it’s helping raise awareness about the dangers of drunk driving and the importance of following roadside safety laws.
What Happens Next
As of now, Garzez remains in custody, and the investigation is ongoing.
Meanwhile, the community mourns the loss of a man who was just out there doing his job.
Let’s not forget David Zapata. His life mattered.
And so does the safety of every tow truck driver, first responder, and roadside worker who puts themselves at risk to help others.
