By ALEXANDREA BAILEY
editor@portisabelsouthpadre.com
A fatal two-vehicle crash took the life of a former Port Isabel Police Department [PIPD] Officer, Cameron County Constable Precinct 1 Deputy Ruben Garcia.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety [DPS] the crash occurred on Monday, Sept. 30, 2024, at approximately 6:45 p.m. on State Highway 48 near Marine Way Road, in Brownsville.
DPS’s preliminary investigation revealed that Garcia’s patrol unit was parked on State Highway 48 while he assisted with another crash scene at said location. Garcia occupied the vehicle, about to leave, when a white Chevrolet Silverado, driven by an allegedly intoxicated male subject, rear-ended the patrol unit. According to Cameron County Constable Precinct One [CCCPO], immediate effort was made to save Garcia’s life. However, he passed shortly after being transported to Valley Regional Hospital in Brownsville, Texas.
According to DPS, the driver of the Chevrolet Silverado was transported to Valley Baptist Hospital in Brownsville with non-life-threatening injuries. As of the time of publication, he remains there under custodial arrest. After he is released from the hospital, DPS says he will be charged with Intoxication Manslaughter Causing Death to a Police Officer, a first-degree felony punishable by up to life in prison. He will be transported to the Cameron County Jail for arraignment.
DPS Troopers are continuing to investigate this fatal crash further.
Garcia worked for the PIPD from 2001-2002.
The PIPD stated that members of its department are deeply saddened to hear of Garcia’s passing and will miss him greatly.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with his entire family, friends, and colleagues. You will be deeply missed, RIP Deputy Garcia,” stated the PIPD.
Cameron County Justice of the Peace Precinct One Benito ‘Bo’ Ochoa IV also expressed his condolences to the fallen officer’s loved ones.
“On behalf of our Justice of the Peace Precinct 1 office, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Garcia family, colleagues and friends. It was an honor to work alongside him, and we are forever grateful for his service. May he rest in peace,” stated Ochoa.
Constable Norman W. Esquivel Jr. calls Garcia a dedicated and courageous officer who took pride in serving and protecting the community he loved, and a selfless public servant who consistently placed the safety and well-being of others above his own, embodying the best qualities of law enforcement.
“Deputy Garcia’s commitment to serving our community will never be forgotten. He made the ultimate sacrifice, and we will forever be grateful for his dedication, bravery and service…” stated Esquivel “As we mourn the loss of a true hero, we also take this moment to remember the spirit of resilience, courage and selflessness that shines through in all law enforcement officers. Though Deputy Garcia’s watch has ended, his legacy of service, compassion, and dedication will continue to inspire and guide those who follow in his footsteps. In the line of duty deaths, while tragic, remind us of the unwavering commitment and bravery shown by those who serve. It serves as a testament to the strength of our law enforcement community, uniting us in the face of adversity and encouraging us to carry on their work with honor.”
Esquivel asks that the community keep Garcia’s family, loved ones, and the entire Cameron County Precinct One family in their thoughts and prayers during this difficult time and to respect the Garcia family’s privacy as they grieve this tremendous loss.
According to Esquivel, funeral arrangements will be announced once finalized.
On Tuesday, Oct. 1, a patrol unit was stationed in front of the Constable’s Office to symbolize respect and remembrance for Garcia’s service and sacrifice. An escort consisting of RGV law enforcement officers was also organized as Garcia was transported from Valley Baptist to a funeral home.
All parties are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
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