El Monte Man Charged with Murder in Officer’s Fatal Pursuit Crash

Tragic Crash in Alhambra: Charges Filed Against El Monte Man for Dual Homicide

In a devastating turn of events, 27-year-old Steven Ara Zapata from El Monte has been charged with two counts of murder and several felonies following a high-speed police chase that resulted in a catastrophic crash. The incident occurred on November 20 and tragically claimed the lives of Alhambra police officer Alec Sanders and one of Zapata’s passengers, 42-year-old Gabriela Moreno. Court records reveal that Zapata also faces two counts of fleeing a peace officer’s motor vehicle causing death, as well as one count of reckless driving with injuries.

The tragic sequence of events began in the early hours of the morning when Zapata allegedly drove a stolen Hyundai SUV with two passengers inside. According to the California Highway Patrol, he was traveling northbound on Edgewood Drive when he collided with Officer Sanders’ Alhambra police vehicle, which was westbound on Valley Boulevard. The impact was devastating, leading to a significant debris field and sending both vehicles into nearby parking lots and public spaces.

Officer Alec Sanders, only 28 years old and a relatively new member of the Alhambra Police Department, was rushed to Los Angeles General Medical Center but succumbed to his injuries. He had served the department for eight months, having previously spent a year with the Long Beach Police Department. Sanders was not only remembered for his dedication to law enforcement but also for his passion for fitness, his loyalty to the Dallas Cowboys, and his love for travel. He left behind a fiancée, parents, and three siblings, whose lives have been irrevocably changed by this tragedy.

In the chaos of the crash, Zapata’s passenger Gabriela Moreno was ejected from the vehicle and died at the scene. The second passenger, Felipe Ramirez, sustained severe injuries, including at least one bone fracture. Zapata himself was hospitalized with moderate injuries but is now facing serious legal consequences for his actions that night.

As of now, Zapata’s initial court appearance has been tentatively rescheduled for Tuesday, though he is still recovering in the hospital. The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has indicated that it could be a week before he appears in court. The severity of the charges against him reflects the tragic nature of the incident, as well as the impact it has had on the community and the family of Officer Sanders.

Community members and fellow officers are mourning the loss of Officer Sanders and have come together to pay their respects. A candlelight vigil is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, November 25, at the Alhambra police station. This gathering is open to the public, providing an opportunity for people to honor Sanders’ legacy and support his family during this incredibly difficult time.

In conclusion, the tragedy of this crash highlights the dangers associated with reckless driving and the responsibilities that come with operating a vehicle. As the legal proceedings against Steven Ara Zapata unfold, the community of Alhambra continues to heal from this heartbreaking loss, united in their memories of a dedicated police officer who served with honor.