Elia De La Cruz, a 35-year-old woman from Rio Grande City, Texas, has been formally charged with intoxication manslaughter following a tragic car accident that resulted in the death of her 8-year-old daughter, Maria Leah Gonzalez. The incident occurred on February 8, 2020, when De La Cruz’s vehicle collided with the rear of a garbage truck on West Highway 83. Both occupants were trapped in the car and had to be extricated through the windshield. Gonzalez was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at the hospital, while De La Cruz sustained injuries but survived.
Investigations revealed that De La Cruz was driving at an extremely high rate of speed and was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. Two cans of beer were found inside the vehicle, and a strong scent of alcohol was noted on her breath. Both mother and daughter were wearing seatbelts, but the severity of the crash led to the tragic outcome.
Elia De La Cruz was indicted on a murder charge in connection to the fatal crash. She was initially charged with intoxicated manslaughter but faced an upgraded charge of murder following the indictment. The legal proceedings are ongoing, and De La Cruz is currently out on bond.
This incident has deeply affected the local community, highlighting the devastating consequences of impaired and reckless driving. The case serves as a somber reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the profound impact such tragedies have on families and communities.
As the legal process continues, the community remains in mourning, and thoughts are with the family and friends affected by this heartbreaking event.
