2 Women Killed While Walking Home from World Cup Watch Party in Alleged Hit-and-Run

**Two Women Tragically Killed in Newark Hit-and-Run Incident**

In a distressing incident that has shocked the Newark community, two women lost their lives in an alleged hit-and-run as they made their way home from a World Cup viewing party. The tragic event occurred late on the evening of June 20, with authorities confirming that the victims were struck while crossing the road.

The victims, Mariana Elizabeth Valverde Beltran, aged 58, and Maria Isabel DeLosAngeles Salgado Ayala, aged 61, were reportedly hit by a vehicle around 11 p.m. Their injuries were severe enough that they were immediately taken to a local hospital, where both were pronounced dead shortly after their arrival, according to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office.

In the wake of the crash, the driver allegedly fled the scene, prompting an extensive investigation. On June 23, David J. Zapata-Vera, 26, presented himself to law enforcement authorities, leading to his arrest. Subsequently, he was charged with multiple serious offences related to the incident.

Zapata-Vera now faces two counts of second-degree vehicular homicide, as well as two counts of leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in death, both classified as second-degree charges. Additionally, he has been charged with two counts of third-degree endangering an injured victim. At this time, it remains unclear whether he has entered a plea in response to the charges.

Eyewitness accounts have provided further context to the incident. Witness Manuel Candelaria described how the events unfolded, noting that vehicular signals were changing at the time of the accident. Candelaria emphasized the reckless nature of the driver, stating, “The light was changing, this side was red, this side was yellow … but anyway he put the gas, and that’s what happens.” His observations highlight the potential disregard for traffic laws that may have contributed to this tragedy.

The neighbourhood has been left reeling from the news, with community members expressing their condolences to the families of the victims. Many residents have gathered to share memories and reflect on the lives of the two women who had been out enjoying a social evening before their lives were cut short.

As investigators continue to delve into the circumstances surrounding the incident, local authorities are urging the public to come forward with any additional information that could assist in the ongoing investigation. The case not only raises concerns about road safety but also about the increasing number of hit-and-run incidents in urban areas.

The community is now grappling with the aftermath of this tragic event, and the escalating call for justice for Valverde Beltran and Salgado Ayala is palpable. Their deaths serve as a reminder of the fragility of life and the impact of reckless driving on innocent individuals.

As court proceedings move forward, many are watching closely to see how the legal system will respond to this grievous situation. The families of the deceased women are expected to seek justice, highlighting the need for accountability for such reckless behaviour on the roads.

As updates emerge regarding the case, the community hopes for a thorough investigation that brings both justice and closure to the affected families amidst this devastating loss.