GRAPEVINE, TX – Authorities have announced that an illegal immigrant from Venezuela was arrested on Tuesday, May 27th, after being on the run since allegedly killing a Texan 18-year-old on Sunday, May 25th.
According to the Center Square, the Grapevine Police Department (GPD) working closely with Texas game wardens arrested Daikerlyn Alejandra Gonzalez Gonzalez. The Office of the Attorney General, Texas Department of Public Safety, the Dallas Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations were all involved in tracking down Gonzalez along with another alleged fugitive for their connection to the death of 18-year-old Ava Moore. Attorney General Ken Paxton said that in addition to Gonzalez, another suspect was arrested who allegedly helped her flee the scene.
Moore was killed on Sunday night while kayaking on Lake Grapevine, a reservoir 20 miles north of Dallas. She was a graduate of Timber Creek High School in Fort Worth and had just graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy Prepatory School on May 19th. She had just accepted her appointment to join the U.S. Air Force Academy’s Class of 2029.
Paxton said in a statement, “On Sunday, Daikerlyn Alejandra Gonzalez Gonzalez — an illegal alien from Venezuela — struck and killed a 18-year-old woman, Ava Moore, on Lake Grapevine with a jet ski. The suspect then fled the scene with a male illegal alien, subsequently committing a hit-and-run after striking another vehicle.
The Fugitive Apprehension Unit tracked down and arrested the illegal aliens connected to the crimes, working with the 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.”
He added, “Ava Moore’s senseless death was caused by an illegal alien who should have never been in our country in the first place. My heart breaks for Ava’s family and friends, and my prayers are with them as they face this tragedy.” The Office of Attorney General is continuing to work with local, state, and national law enforcement partners on the case.
According to NBC5, video showed several people carrying Moore out of the water and trying to provide first aid. Despite the life-saving efforts of witnesses and first responders, Moore died from severe traumatic injuries.
Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind, U.S. Air Force Academy superintendent said in a statement, “We lost an exemplary teammate this weekend — Cadet Candidate Ava Moore, whose passion for leadership and service left an impact on everyone she met. 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.”
During a press conference on Wednesday, May 28th, officials read a statement from Moore’s family: “We are so thankful for the countless messages and demonstrations of love and support, but most grateful for the many prayers we have received. This is a difficult time for all involved, but also an opportunity for our beautiful girl to continue to impact our community.
Out of this tragedy, God will make good, and that only can be accomplished through forgiveness. We respectfully as for our time and privacy to grieve, and thank you for all of your kindness and support. God bless.”
