The Garland Police Department is investigating an officer-involved crash last week that led to the death of a man who was standing outside his vehicle.
Juan Pablo Rios Aguilar, 32, was stopped in the roadway during the early hours of October 10 – without lights – when an officer with the Garland Police Department reportedly struck and killed him, according to a press release.
“The investigation is active and the investigators are reviewing all of the evidence, including dash camera video, to determine what happened,” Garland Police Lt. Pedro Barineau told The Dallas Express.
The officer had just left the police department on Forest Lane at 6:30 a.m., traveling east on W. State Street. A truck was in the middle of the road, and Aguilar was standing in front of it. It was dark outside.
“We believe the vehicle was broken down in the roadway, blocking the entire eastbound lane of traffic without lights on,” Barineau said.
The officer tried to swerve, but hit the truck and Aguilar, according to the release.
“After the crash, paramedics responded and took Aguilar to the hospital, where he was pronounced deceased,” Barineau said.
The officer was taken to the hospital but was released soon after, according to Barineau.
“This is a tragic incident and our thoughts are with everyone affected as the investigation continues,” the release reads.
Aguilar was a Garland resident, according to the release. An online obituary said he was born in Jerecuaro, Guanajuato, Mexico, in 1993, and died in Plano on October 10.
“Juan Pablo was a loving husband, devoted father, and cherished son and brother,” the obituary reads. “He was known for his kind heart, strong work ethic, and the joy he brought to everyone around him. His laughter, compassion, and dedication to his family will be forever remembered by those who had the blessing of knowing him.”
He leaves behind a father and mother, a brother and sister, a wife, and two daughters, according to the obituary.