An 18-year-old Air Force Academy cadet candidate was killed in a jet ski hit-and-run incident on Grapevine Lake in Texas on May 25, leading to the arrest of two Venezuelan nationals who authorities say entered the United States illegally.
Ava Moore was kayaking near Oak Grove Park on Grapevine Lake Sunday evening when she was struck from behind by a jet ski operated by 21-year-old Daikerlyn Alejandra Gonzalez Gonzalez. Moore, a 2024 graduate of Timber Creek High School, had recently completed her first year at the Air Force Preparatory School in Colorado Springs.
According to arrest documents, the jet ski was traveling at high speed with wanton disregard for the safety of others, making multiple aggressive passes near swimmers and other boaters. Witnesses reported that Moore and another kayaker had decided to paddle away from the area to avoid the reckless watercraft when the fatal collision occurred.
The jet ski carried two female occupants at the time of the crash. While the passenger remained at the scene to speak with first responders, Gonzalez fled with 21-year-old Maikel Coello Perozo, who was waiting in a blue Toyota Corolla. Bystanders attempted to prevent their escape, but members of their group helped them reach the parking lot.
During their flight from the scene, Perozo struck two separate vehicles while driving away from the lake. The pair abandoned their damaged vehicle at the Cobblestone apartments at Ruth Wall and Turner Road before continuing their escape on foot.
Moore suffered severe head trauma in the collision and was pulled from the water by witnesses. Despite wearing a life jacket, she died after being transported to a local hospital. Lisa Scrabeck, who assisted in providing aid to Moore, noted that she “didn’t suffer in agony.”
Law enforcement agencies launched an extensive manhunt following the incident. The Grapevine Police Department released photographs of the suspects and established a tip line that generated more than 900 responses from the public. Officers used facial recognition software and doorbell camera footage to identify the suspects.
Both suspects were arrested on May 27 at a residence in the Oak Cliff area of Dallas. Police discovered the pair had packed suitcases, suggesting they intended to remain in hiding for an extended period. Perozo admitted to investigators that he helped Gonzalez escape to avoid capture for killing Moore.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement officials confirmed that both Gonzalez and Perozo are Venezuelan nationals who entered the United States illegally. Gonzalez was arrested after crossing the southern border and released on recognizance in September 2023. Perozo arrived in January 2023 and was released pending an immigration hearing. ICE has placed immigration holds on both suspects, and they face deportation proceedings following resolution of state criminal charges.
Gonzalez faces charges of manslaughter, reckless operation, excessive speed, and fleeing the scene of an accident. The manslaughter charge carries second-degree felony penalties. Perozo has been charged with collision involving damage to a vehicle and hindering apprehension, both misdemeanors. Authorities indicated that additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
The investigation involves multiple agencies, with Texas Game Wardens leading the water fatality investigation and Grapevine Police handling the automotive hit-and-run incidents. A specialized team will use 3D video reconstruction software to recreate the collision.
Moore’s athletic achievements included helping the Timber Creek Lady Falcons basketball team to a 71-51 record across four years. During her sophomore year in 2022, the team posted a 24-10 record, while her senior season concluded with a 17-14 mark.
The victim’s family established a GoFundMe campaign to assist with funeral expenses, which has raised over $13,000. Family members expressed gratitude for community support while requesting prayers during their difficult time. They also extended thoughts to the young women involved in the incident and their families.
Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton’s office coordinated the multi-agency investigation that led to the arrests. Law enforcement partners included Texas Parks and Wildlife, Dallas Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, and U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
The case has prompted strong reactions from state officials, with Governor Greg Abbott calling for the death penalty for both suspects via social media. Paxton issued a statement emphasizing that Moore’s death was caused by individuals who should not have been in the country.
Authorities continue investigating the ownership of the jet ski and whether it was rented. The passenger who remained at the scene has not been charged. Officials are also examining whether alcohol played a role in the incident.