Authorities have arrested two individuals believed to be responsible for a fatal hit-and-run boating crash that occurred the evening of May 25 on Grapevine Lake, resulting in the death of 18-year-old Ava Moore.
According to a joint statement from the Texas Game Wardens, Grapevine Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations, the collision happened near the shoreline of Oak Grove Park when a personal watercraft (PWC) operated at high speed by 21-year-old Daikerlyn Alejandra Gonzalez-Gonzalez of Venezuela struck a kayak occupied by Moore. A second female was riding as a passenger on the PWC at the time of the crash.
Both individuals fled the scene immediately following the crash. Gonzalez later returned to the park but left in a vehicle with 21-year-old Maikel Coello Perozo. As they fled the area, they were involved in another hit-and-run crash with two other vehicles. The second female passenger stayed at the scene and was interviewed by Grapevine Police.
Gonzalez and Perozo were arrested in Dallas on May 27. Gonzalez is charged with Manslaughter, a second-degree felony. Perozo is charged with Collision Involving Damage to a Vehicle, a Class B misdemeanor, and Hindering Apprehension, a Class A misdemeanor. Additional charges may follow as the investigation continues.
Following their arrests, Enforcement Removal Operations (ERO) Dallas lodged immigration detainers on both individuals. They are now in removal proceedings as aliens present without admission or parole, according to the Immigration and Nationality Act.
Texas Game Warden Captain Joseph Quintero said, “We received more than 900 tips from the public which helped us provide a quick resolution to the family.”
“These arrests will not undo the heartbreak of losing Ava Moore, but we will continue to provide support to her family throughout the criminal justice process,” said Amanda McNew, Media Manager for the Grapevine Police Department.
Ava Moore, who had planned to join the United States Air Force, was remembered by her family in a public statement shared by police:
“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 little girl to continue to impact our community.
Out of this tragedy, God will make good, and that can only be accomplished through forgiveness.
We respectfully ask for our time and privacy to grieve and thank you for all of your kindness and support.
God Bless!”
A specialized team of Texas Game Wardens will reconstruct the boating collision using 3D video technology as part of the ongoing investigation.
The investigation involves multiple agencies including the Texas Game Wardens, Grapevine Police Department, Texas Attorney General’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, Enforcement Removal Operations, Texas Department of Public Safety, Dallas Police Department, Grapevine Fire Department, and Irving Police Department.
