Harlingen, TX — A community is grieving and a family is shattered after 46-year-old David Zapata, a dedicated tow truck operator with Steel Towing, was struck and killed Tuesday in a senseless and heartbreaking crash on the job.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), Zapata was in the process of securing a disabled vehicle onto the flatbed of his tow truck when he was hit by a white Dodge Ram. The driver, identified as 28-year-old Cristobal Stephan Garzez of Donna, allegedly fled the scene and failed to render aid. He was later located near the crash site and taken into custody.
Garzez now faces multiple serious charges, including intoxication manslaughter and failure to stop and render aid — charges that reflect the gravity of a loss that many say should never have happened.
David Zapata was pronounced dead at the scene. His death has sparked deep sorrow and anger, not only among his family and colleagues at Steel Towing, but throughout the Rio Grande Valley community. A man simply doing his job with care and professionalism lost his life in a preventable tragedy — one made worse by the alleged reckless choices of another.
In a public statement, community members extended their deepest condolences to Zapata’s immediate family and colleagues, calling for justice to be served. Many are demanding answers and accountability in the wake of yet another fatal incident involving suspected impaired driving.
Zapata was known by his peers as a hardworking, humble man — someone who showed up no matter the hour, braving traffic and dangerous conditions to help others. He leaves behind loved ones who now face the unthinkable pain of losing him too soon, too unfairly.
DPS continues to investigate the incident, with multiple law enforcement agencies assisting. Details regarding funeral arrangements will be shared as they become available.
As the community mourns this devastating loss, one message rings loud and clear: this should not have happened.
May David Zapata rest in peace — and may justice bring some measure of comfort to those he leaves behind.
