The 29-year-old Donna man accused of killing a tow truck driver in Harlingen will face a jury next month.

Cristobal Stephan Garzez pleaded not guilty on Tuesday to charges of intoxication manslaughter with a vehicle, manslaughter and possession of a controlled substance. He was initially charged with manslaughter, collision involving death, and possession of a controlled substance.

A hearing was set for Thursday, Oct. 1, with a trial date scheduled for Monday, Oct. 5.

Garzez is accused of fatally striking 46-year-old David Zapata on July 8, 2025. Authorities said Zapata was on the shoulder lane of the expressway securing a vehicle onto his tow truck when he was struck by Garzez's vehicle.

Garzez allegedly fled from the crash but was located near the scene and taken into custody.

He told law enforcement officers that he didn't stop when the crash happened because he was "scared," according to a criminal complaint.

A small white baggy containing 1.26 grams of a white powdery substance was found in Garzez's vehicle. The indictment against Garzez identifies the substance as fentanyl.

Cameron County jail records show Garzez remains in custody.

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