Two illegal immigrants were arrested in connection with a hit-and-run jet ski collision that killed an Air Force Academy cadet candidate, Texas law enforcement officials said on Wednesday.
Grapevine Police and Texas Game Wardens said during a May 28 press conference that the suspects were captured in Dallas on May 27 after two days on the run.
The prospective cadet, Ava Moore, 18, was kayaking on Grapevine Lake on May 25 when she was struck and killed by a jet ski.
Daikerlyn Alejandra Gonzalez Gonzalez, 21, was allegedly operating the jet ski at the time of the collision. Maikel Coello Perozo, 21, allegedly helped Gonzalez flee the scene.
Both suspects are Venezuelan nationals and are in the country illegally, authorities confirmed during the news briefing.
The Fugitive Apprehension Unit tracked down the suspects and arrested them, with the help of Texas Parks and Wildlife, the Grapevine Police Department, the Dallas Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Gonzalez has been charged with second-degree felony manslaughter.
Perozo has been charged with collision involving damage to a vehicle and hindering apprehension, which are both misdemeanors.
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has lodged detainers against both suspects.
“ICE will take custody [of the suspects] after the state of Texas is finished with them,” Joshua Johnson, acting field office director for ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations in Dallas, said during the press conference.
The two individuals crossed into the United States through the southern border in 2023 or 2024. They were captured at the border, processed for notice to appear, and then released on their own recognizance, Johnson said.
Police are looking into whether alcohol was involved in the incident, but so far, they have not found any evidence that it was a factor. Authorities are also investigating whether proper permitting was obtained to operate the personal watercraft.
It's unclear whether the suspects have retained legal counsel.
Attorney General Ken Paxton said his office will pursue justice in the case.
“My heart breaks for Ava's family and friends, and my prayers are with them as they face this tragedy. My office will continue to work with local, state, and national law enforcement partners to secure justice for Ava.”
Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind paid tribute to her talents and legacy.
“Ava’s constant happiness and attitude helped her squadron get through the challenges of the Prep School, and her drive to excel was on display as she sought out leadership positions to improve herself and her team. Our team is focused on providing support to Ava’s family, her Prep School Squadron, the Prep School Women’s Basketball team, and the entire Academy family.”
No charges have been filed against a female passenger who was on the jet ski at the time, police said. More charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
Authorities thanked the public for their help, saying they received more than 900 tips on the case.