Tragic Loss: Texas Tow Truck Owner David Zapata Killed on Expressway — The 15th Emergency Responder Death in 2025
San Antonio, TX — July 8, 2025
In a heartbreaking incident that underscores the perilous nature of roadside assistance work, David Zapata, 46, owner and operator of Steel Towing, lost his life on Tuesday afternoon while assisting a stranded motorist along a busy Texas expressway. The tragic event marks the 15th emergency responder struck-and-killed death in the United States so far in 2025, highlighting a growing and alarming trend of fatalities among those who risk their lives every day to keep roadways safe.
The Fatal Incident
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Zapata was performing routine roadside assistance when a passing vehicle, driven by an individual later identified as 39-year-old Garzez, failed to slow down or move over as mandated by Texas’ Move Over/Slow Down law. The vehicle struck Zapata while he was outside his tow truck, working near the disabled vehicle.
Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene but were unable to save Zapata, who was pronounced dead at the site. The driver fled the scene but was apprehended shortly after and charged with intoxication manslaughter, failure to move over causing death, failure to render aid, and possession of a controlled substance.
A Dedicated Professional Taken Too Soon
David Zapata was more than a tow truck operator; he was a community pillar, a family man, and a trusted professional known for his dedication to helping others in their moments of need. As the owner of Steel Towing, Zapata built his business on the foundation of reliability, compassion, and commitment to service.
Colleagues and friends remember him as hardworking, generous, and someone who treated every customer with kindness and respect. “David always went the extra mile,” said fellow tow operator Carlos Mendez. “He cared deeply about his work and the people he helped. Losing him is a huge blow to all of us.”
The Growing Crisis: Emergency Responders at Risk
The death of David Zapata adds to a troubling national trend. According to the National Traffic Incident Management Coalition, 2025 has already seen 15 emergency responders struck and killed while working on the road, a grim tally that reflects ongoing dangers for police officers, firefighters, tow operators, and other roadside workers.
Texas, which enacted its Move Over law in 2003, continues to see violations that put lives at risk. The law requires motorists to move over to a non-adjacent lane or, if impossible, slow down when passing vehicles with flashing emergency lights. Despite awareness campaigns and enforcement, many drivers fail to comply.
A spokesperson for the Texas Department of Transportation emphasized the importance of compliance: “These laws exist to protect lives. When drivers ignore them, they are putting responders and the public in grave danger. Every motorist must take responsibility.”
The Role of Traffic Incident Management (TIM) in Responder Safety
In San Antonio and across Texas, the Traffic Incident Management (TIM) program plays a critical role in improving responder safety. TIM is a coordinated, multi-agency approach to managing incidents quickly and safely, reducing congestion, and preventing secondary accidents.
Training programs and protocols ensure that law enforcement, fire departments, EMS, tow operators, and transportation agencies work together effectively. However, the success of these programs relies heavily on motorists’ adherence to safety laws and awareness on the road.
Community Mourns and Rallies
The loss of David Zapata has deeply impacted the San Antonio community and the tow truck industry nationwide. Steel Towing’s office has become a makeshift memorial, adorned with flowers, candles, and heartfelt messages from friends, family, and customers who admired Zapata’s dedication.
Plans are underway for a candlelight vigil and a memorial convoy of tow trucks to honor his life and legacy. Tow operators across the country are encouraged to participate in a coordinated “light up” event, flashing their emergency lights for one minute in a powerful tribute.
A Call to Action: Protect Those Who Protect Us
David Zapata’s death is a somber reminder of the dangers faced by emergency responders every day. It serves as a call to action for all drivers to adopt safer habits: slow down, move over, and stay vigilant.
Roadside workers put their lives on the line to assist those in distress and to keep traffic moving safely. It is incumbent upon every motorist to respect the laws designed to protect these heroes.
Final Thoughts
As San Antonio and the nation mourn the loss of David Zapata, his legacy endures as a testament to dedication, service, and the critical need for improved roadway safety.
May his sacrifice inspire change and save lives in the future.