Charges Filed Months After a Deadly July Crash
A 19-year-old San Antonio man, identified by police as Ethan Michael Gonzales, is facing manslaughter charges after investigators linked him to a July highway crash that killed five people and injured more than a dozen others. According to authorities, Gonzales was driving a stolen Camaro at speeds exceeding 100 mph when the crash occurred.
How the Crash Happened
The crash occurred on July 17 near Cassin Road, when the Camaro reportedly attempted to pass between a bus and a semi-truck at high speed. Police say the Camaro struck the bus, sending it into a guardrail, before the Camaro itself was struck by the semi and rolled over. Several people were ejected from the vehicles involved in the crash.
Suspect Identified Through DNA and Cell Records
Gonzales did not remain at the scene, according to investigators. Three other individuals, identified as Matthew Andres Espinoza, Eric Rene Perez, and John Michael Sanchez, are also connected to the case, though they face charges related to the vehicle theft rather than the fatalities. Investigators say DNA evidence and cell phone records were used to connect Gonzales to the crash scene months after the incident.
Five Manslaughter Counts, More Charges Possible
Gonzales now faces five counts of manslaughter, with additional charges considered likely as the investigation continues. Court records indicate Gonzales has a prior case involving a police pursuit.
Bond and Release Conditions
Gonzales’s bond was set at $2 million, and his release conditions include electronic ankle monitoring and a requirement that he remain at home. Authorities say they are continuing to build the case against him as the investigation moves toward prosecution. As with any pending criminal case, Gonzales and the other individuals charged in connection with the incident are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.