Cristobal Stephan Garzez of Donna, Texas, is scheduled to stand trial April 27 on charges including intoxication manslaughter in the July 2025 death of tow operator David Zapata, 46, on Expressway 83, according to KRGV Valley Central. According to prosecutors, Garzez allegedly struck Zapata from behind while Zapata was working on a disabled vehicle and then left the scene; Garzez has pleaded not guilty.
Operator takeaway
Watch this trial for signals about how Texas prosecutors pursue roadside fatality charges — the outcome will influence how courts value tow operator safety claims.