A night out with friends turned tragic for 29-year-old Jose Benitez, who was struck and killed by a speeding SUV in Dallas’ Bishop Arts District late Sunday night. The driver, John Alvarez, fled the scene but was later apprehended by police.
What Happened: Tragic Hit-and-Run in the Bishop Arts District
Jose Benitez was crossing West Davis Street around 10:30 p.m. on Sunday, after parking his car and heading to meet friends at a local taqueria. Tragically, as he crossed the street, a white SUV, driven by 29-year-old John Alvarez, slammed into him. The impact was so severe that debris was scattered across the road, and Benitez was pronounced dead at the scene. Surveillance footage captured the SUV just moments before the crash, showing the vehicle speeding down the street.
After the crash, Alvarez’s white Toyota SUV crashed into a parked car, but he continued to flee on foot. Dallas police quickly tracked him down about a mile from the scene. After taking him to the hospital for medical clearance, Alvarez was booked into jail.
A Community in Shock: Remembering Jose Benitez
Flowers and pieces of the SUV’s grill were found on the sidewalk the next morning, marking the spot where Benitez’s life was tragically cut short. His best friend, Kristopher Dealva, expressed his disbelief and sorrow, saying, “I didn’t believe it. It’s hard… It just feels like yesterday we talked.”
Benitez, a private security officer who worked both locally and across the country, was remembered by friends as loyal, hardworking, and full of life. He leaves behind a grieving wife and a community struggling to come to terms with the loss.
Calls for Justice and Accountability
As the investigation into the hit-and-run continues, Benitez’s family and friends are demanding justice. “He deserves justice,” said Dealva, reflecting the deep pain felt by those who knew Benitez. His death has left a hole in the community, and there are growing calls for accountability and consequences for Alvarez’s actions.
What Happens Next: Legal and Community Response
Alvarez faces serious charges, including leaving the scene of an accident, and the community is rallying for justice for Benitez. As the case progresses, the family, friends, and local community remain hopeful that Benitez’s death will not be in vain and that the person responsible will be held accountable.
Closing Line
This story may be updated as more details emerge from the ongoing investigation. The family and community continue to honor the memory of Jose Benitez, whose life was tragically taken too soon.
