Erica Garza Obituary: A Tragic Hit-and-Run Incident in Downtown Austin
A tragic hit-and-run incident in Downtown Austin has claimed the life of a 20-year-old woman and left two men with injuries. The crash occurred in the early morning hours of Sunday, May 11, and the Austin Police Department (APD) continues to search for the driver responsible. The fatal crash happened just before 5 a.m. in the 700 block of East Seventh Street, a busy area located between Red River Street and Interstate 35.
The Incident
According to police reports, a vehicle struck three pedestrians and then fled the scene, heading northbound along the I-35 frontage road. The vehicle did not stop to offer aid or wait for authorities, leading to a criminal investigation into the incident. The three pedestrians struck in the crash included one woman and two men. The male victims sustained only minor injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.
The Victim
The female victim, identified as Erica Garza, suffered critical injuries in the collision and was also taken to the hospital alongside the others. Sadly, despite medical efforts, Garza succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced dead on Friday, May 16, five days after the crash. Garza’s untimely death has left her family, friends, and community in mourning.
Investigation
The Austin Police Department has launched a full investigation into the hit-and-run and is actively pursuing leads. Investigators from the Vehicular Homicide Unit are collecting evidence and appealing to the public for any information that might help identify the vehicle or the driver involved. Surveillance footage from surrounding businesses and traffic cameras is being reviewed, and police are hopeful that tips from the community may lead to a breakthrough.
Community Response
The incident has shocked many, particularly because the driver fled the scene, abandoning the victims and evading immediate accountability.
Garza’s passing marks a somber moment for the city, as the event is being recorded as Austin’s 30th fatal crash of the year, bringing the city’s traffic-related death toll to 34 for 2025.
Conclusion
The loss of Erica Garza is a profound tragedy that has left a void in the hearts of those who knew her. Her life was cut short in an act of negligence and disregard, and the responsible party remains at large.
The Austin Police Department continues its commitment to finding those responsible for fatal crashes and preventing similar tragedies from occurring in the future. As the investigation progresses, the community is encouraged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious vehicles or behavior that could be related to the case.
