BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A Brownsville family is mourning tonight after 40-year-old Steven Garcia was killed in a heartbreaking hit-and-run accident while riding his bicycle Tuesday afternoon.
The tragedy unfolded just after 12:20 p.m. at the intersection of International Boulevard and East Polk Street, a busy stretch often filled with both vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Responding officers from the Brownsville Police Department arrived within minutes, but despite emergency efforts, Garcia was pronounced dead at the scene.
A Driver Who Didn’t Stop
According to investigators, Garcia was struck by a vehicle that then sped away, leaving him behind without stopping to render aid. Police say the driver’s decision to flee turned an already devastating accident into a criminal act.
As of Tuesday evening, authorities have not released details about the suspect vehicle, but detectives are canvassing the area for witnesses and reviewing surveillance footage in hopes of piecing together what happened.
A Life Cut Short
Friends and neighbors describe Steven Garcia as someone full of energy, kindness, and community spirit. He was known for his love of cycling and often rode his bike through the city’s neighborhoods. His sudden loss has left many struggling to comprehend how such a tragedy could occur in broad daylight.
“Steven was just trying to enjoy a ride, something he loved doing,” one family friend said. “To think that someone could hit him and keep driving is unbearable.”
Community Outrage and Grief
The hit-and-run has struck a deep nerve in Brownsville, where many residents say they feel vulnerable as pedestrians and cyclists share the road with heavy traffic. The intersection of International Blvd. and East Polk Street, where Garcia was killed, is frequently described as dangerous.
Community members gathered near the crash site Tuesday evening, leaving flowers and candles as a small memorial began to form in Garcia’s honor.
Police Urge Public’s Help
The Brownsville Police Department is now appealing directly to the public for help finding the driver.
“This is a tragedy for the Garcia family and for our community,” a police spokesperson said. “We are committed to finding the person responsible. If anyone saw something, or knows something, please come forward.”
Anyone with information is urged to call the Brownsville Police Department at (956) 548-7000, or reach out anonymously through Brownsville Crime Stoppers.
An Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains active, and police have promised updates as new information becomes available. For now, though, a family is left grieving the loss of a son, brother, and friend — and a community is left demanding accountability.
Steven Garcia’s death serves as yet another reminder of the dangers cyclists face on busy city streets, and why justice in this case matters so deeply to those who loved him.