Accident – Death – Obituary News :

DA Criticized for Delay in Indicting Criminals Faces Defeat in Primary

Located in the heart of Texas, Ozona is a small town known for its tight-knit community and picturesque landscapes. However, recent events have cast a shadow over this peaceful town, culminating in a highly contested Republican Primary election that saw Laurie K. English, the 112th District Attorney of Ozona, suffer a resounding defeat.

Tragic Incident Unfolds

The incident that sparked the controversy occurred in March 2023 when a reckless coyote ran through a stoplight in Ozona, causing a collision with a pickup truck driven by Maria Tambunga. Tragically, Maria and her 7-year-old granddaughter Emilia lost their lives in the accident. The coyote, identified as Rassian Nateray Comer, was also transporting two other individuals who perished in the crash, Ignacio Coca Guzman and Rodrigo Soriano Santiago.

Delay in Justice

Despite the gravity of the situation, it took Ms. English several months to indict Comer for the deaths of the four individuals. The delay sparked outrage in the community, with many questioning the efficiency and transparency of the DA’s office. Ms. English’s refusal to provide an explanation for the prolonged wait only fueled the public’s frustration.

Primary Election Upset

Challenged by Reagan County attorney Stephen Dodd in the Republican Primary, Ms. English faced a tough battle for re-election. The results were clear, with Dodd securing over 70 percent of the vote, marking a decisive victory over the incumbent DA.

County Breakdown

The election returns by county revealed the extent of Dodd’s support, with a majority of voters across Sutton, Crockett, Reagan, Upton, and Pecos counties casting their ballots in his favor. The 112th District Attorney’s office exercises jurisdiction over these five counties, making the election outcome a significant turning point for the region.

Overall, the defeat of Laurie K. English in the Republican Primary signals a shift in leadership for Ozona and its surrounding counties. As the community grapples with the aftermath of the tragic incident, the hope for swift justice and transparency in the legal system remains a top priority for residents.

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