Gilver Zelaya-Diaz, a 42-year-old illegal immigrant with a history of criminal charges, was recently released from federal prison before being arrested in connection to a deadly hit-and-run accident that claimed the life of 26-year-old Jacques Price in Montgomery County, Maryland. Zelaya-Diaz, who has multiple aliases, entered the country illegally in 2019 and had a criminal record that included charges for various offenses such as armed robbery and possessing controlled dangerous substances with the intent to distribute. Despite being on probation at the time of the incident, Zelaya-Diaz managed to evade authorities for over a week before being apprehended with the help of license plate databases and vehicle records.
Jacques Price, a father and uncle, was riding a skateboard when he was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene, leading to his tragic death. Zelaya-Diaz’s arrest brought a sense of closure to Price’s family, with his father expressing gratitude for law enforcement’s efforts in tracking down the suspect. While it doesn’t change the outcome, Price’s father acknowledged that the arrest of Zelaya-Diaz, whom he described as a “bad guy,” was a significant development in the case. A memorial at the crash site serves as a reminder of the young father’s life, with neighbors leaving tokens of remembrance such as a white skateboard nailed to a telephone pole with the date of Price’s death.
Zelaya-Diaz’s criminal history and failure to appear at multiple court dates prompted prosecutors to seek his detainment until trial. Despite his incarceration at the Montgomery County Correctional Facility, further details surrounding the case are yet to be disclosed. The tragic loss of Jacques Price has left a deep impact on his family and community, with loved ones mourning the untimely death of a man who was simply going about his day when the fatal hit-and-run occurred. The arrest of Zelaya-Diaz has provided some measure of relief to Price’s family, who continue to cope with the aftermath of his death.
The case highlights the complex challenges associated with immigration and law enforcement, particularly in incidents involving individuals with multiple aliases and a criminal background. The tragic consequences of the hit-and-run serve as a stark reminder of the need for comprehensive measures to address issues related to illegal immigration and public safety. Price’s father’s sentiments reflect the ongoing grief and anguish experienced by families impacted by such incidents, underscoring the importance of accountability and justice in ensuring that those responsible are held accountable for their actions.
As the legal proceedings unfold, the case of Gilver Zelaya-Diaz serves as a somber reminder of the devastating impact of hit-and-run accidents and the importance of law enforcement agencies in pursuing justice for victims and their families. The memory of Jacques Price lives on through tributes and memorials dedicated to honoring his life and legacy. Despite the pain and loss experienced by Price’s loved ones, the arrest of Zelaya-Diaz represents a step towards closure and accountability in the pursuit of justice for the victim and his grieving family.
