Daikerlyn Alejandra Gonzalez-Gonzalez, 22, was arrested on May 27 in Dallas and charged with second-degree felony manslaughter after allegedly operating the jet ski that fatally struck Moore, a US Air Force recruit, as she kayaked near Oak Grove Park on May 25. Gonzalez is accused of fleeing the scene following the crash.
Gonzalez's jet ski passenger remained at the location and cooperated with police. Gonzalez fled the area in a vehicle driven by 21-year-old Maikel Coello Perozo, who is now charged with hindering apprehension and is expected to face additional charges. Both were taken into custody after a standoff at a residence in the Dallas area, according to the New York Post.
“Welcome to Texas. Here’s your death penalty,” Texas Governor Greg Abbott wrote on X. Abbott has publicly supported capital punishment for illegal immigrants.
Witnesses told police the jet ski was being operated in a “reckless” manner along the shoreline prior to the crash. After the collision, Gonzalez and Perozo allegedly fled in a blue Toyota Corolla, hitting two other vehicles before leaving the scene.
“Her constant happiness and attitude helped her squadron get through the challenges of the Prep School, and her drive to excel was on display as she sought out leadership positions to improve herself and her team,” said US Air Force Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Tony Bauernfeind in a statement about Moore.
“This criminal alien and her boyfriend will account for the tragic accident that ended the life of a young woman who exhibited enormous potential,” said Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Dallas acting Field Office Director Josh Johnson. “ICE Dallas will remain steadfast in our commitment to arresting and removing criminal aliens who pose threats to the safety of our communities.”
According to ICE, Gonzalez entered the country illegally on September 28, 2023, and was released on an order of recognizance the same day after being issued a Notice to Appear. Coello reportedly entered unlawfully in January 2023 and was also released pending an immigration hearing.
“Our partnerships with law enforcement across jurisdictions are key during these types of investigations,” said HSI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard. “This investigation will continue to be driven by facts, evidence and a firm commitment to justice. The arrests of these two illegal aliens reflect the diligence and professionalism of our law enforcement team.”
Moore was visiting her family in North Texas for the holiday weekend when she was killed.