Arrest in Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash That Killed Two Women In Newark

Newark, N.J.-Essex County Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II and Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda announced today that a suspect has been arrested in connection with a fatal hit-and-run crash that claimed the lives of two female pedestrians in Newark on Saturday, June 20, 2026.

David J. Zapata-Vera, 26, of Newark, surrendered to police on Tuesday, June 23, 2026.

Zapata-Vera is charged with two counts of second-degree vehicular homicide, two counts of second-degree leaving the scene of a motor vehicle accident resulting in death, and two counts of third-degree endangering an injured victim.

He is accused of striking the women while they were in the crosswalk at the intersection of Park Avenue and North 7^th Street before fleeing the scene.

The victims, Mariana Elizabeth Valverde Beltran, 58, of Elizabeth, and Maria Isabel DeLosAngeles Salgado Ayala, 61, of Newark were taken to University Hospital, where they were later pronounced dead.

These allegations are merely accusations.  All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until they enter a guilty plea or are found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The public is encouraged to report any information related to criminal activity by contacting the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Tips Line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432.  All calls will remain confidential.

DAVID J. ZAPATA-VERA