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Discovery of Jet Ski Suspects in Air Force Cadet Candidate’s Fatal Accident
Authorities have identified two individuals linked to the hit-and-run death of an Air Force cadet candidate as illegal immigrants. This revelation follows an announcement from an Immigration and Customs Enforcement official.
Details on the Incident
During a press conference held in Grapevine, Texas, Joshua Johnson, the acting field director for ICE, confirmed the identities of the suspects. Daikerlyn Alejandra Gonzalez Gonzalez, aged 21, and her alleged accomplice Maikel Coello Perozo, also 21, both hail from Venezuela.
According to reports, Gonzalez was operating the jet ski that tragically struck and killed 18-year-old Ava Moore at Grapevine Lake on Memorial Day weekend. Moore was a candidate for the United States Air Force Academy, poised to join the Class of 2029.
Crossing the Border and Legal Proceedings
Johnson disclosed that both suspects entered the United States illegally in early 2023. They were initially arrested upon crossing the southern border but were processed with a notice to appear in court subsequently released on their own recognizance.
ICE has filed immigration detainers against the suspects, indicating that they will face deportation following the completion of their criminal proceedings.
Charges Filed Against the Suspects
Captain Joseph Quintero from the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department revealed that Gonzalez has been charged with second-degree felony manslaughter for her role in Moore’s death. Meanwhile, Perozo faces misdemeanor charges for leaving the scene of the accident and hindering apprehension.
Law enforcement officials apprehended both suspects in Dallas earlier this week. Their relationship remains under investigation.
Statements from Officials
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton emphasized that both individuals were in the United States illegally during his public statement. He conveyed his condolences to the family of Ava Moore, underscoring the tragedy of her death caused by individuals who should not have been in the country.
In a statement on social media, Paxton said, “We have arrested an illegal alien for killing Ava Moore and another illegal alien connected to her death.” He expressed his sorrow for the family, stating, “My heart breaks for Ava’s family and friends, and my prayers are with them as they face this tragedy.”
Community Response and Ongoing Investigation
The ICE agency has yet to respond to requests for comments regarding the ongoing investigation. In a collaborative effort, local law enforcement units, including the Texas Attorney General’s Office, Texas Department of Public Safety, Dallas Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations, are all working towards securing justice for Ava Moore.
Ava Moore was excited about her upcoming journey to Air Force basic training, looking forward to fulfilling her lifelong dream of serving in the military. Family members reported that she returned home to Texas for Memorial Day weekend when the incident occurred.
A Promising Future Cut Short
Moore was a remarkable student and an accomplished athlete at the U.S. Air Force Academy Preparatory School in Colorado. Her basketball coach, Ke’sha Blanton, expressed profound sadness and anger over her untimely passing. She noted that Moore demonstrated extraordinary potential and spoke fondly of her aspirations.
Reflecting on her lost future, Blanton remarked, “You know, we talked throughout the course of the year that at some point in her career she was going to be a four-star general because she loved it. They took a bright, bright star from our lives.”
Details of the Accident
On the day of the incident, investigators reported that two women were riding a jet ski when they collided with Moore, who was swimming in the lake. One of the passengers remained at the scene, while Gonzalez fled with Perozo. Their escape attempt included crashing into another vehicle.
First responders transported Moore to a nearby hospital after pulling her from the water, but despite medical efforts, she succumbed to severe head trauma.
Commitment to Public Safety
The Grapevine Police Department conveyed its condolences in a statement, asserting its commitment to ensuring the safety of public waters. They emphasized that Ava’s family and friends are in their thoughts during this challenging time.
The tragic loss of Ava Moore has reverberated through the community, raising significant concerns over water safety and illegal immigration issues. Local authorities are determined to address both aspects as they continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this unfortunate event.
