Brownsville Police Apprehend Suspect in String of Auto Thefts

On October 26, 2023, the Brownsville Police Department’s Patrol and Auto Theft Agents successfully apprehended 18-year-old Mario Alberto Garza, a suspect linked to multiple thefts of motor vehicles in the area.

At approximately 1:30 a.m. on the same day, Brownsville Auto Theft Agents were conducting patrols in neighborhoods where recent thefts of newer model GMC Sierras and Chevy Silverados had been reported. During their patrol, agents identified a suspicious vehicle matching the description of a suspect vehicle linked to several auto thefts.

Upon this discovery, Brownsville Police Patrol Officers were alerted and attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a gray Dodge Ram located at the 2800 block of W. Alton Gloor Blvd. The officer activated lights and sirens to signal the traffic stop, but the driver, later identified as Mario Alberto Garza, failed to comply, leading to a high-speed pursuit.

The pursuit came to an end when the suspect vehicle collided with a pole. Following the collision, Garza was swiftly taken into custody. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed a loaded handgun.

Garza faces a litany of charges, including nine counts of Theft of Motor Vehicle (3rd Degree Felony), Engaging in Organized Criminal Activity (2nd Degree Felony), Unlawful Use of Criminal Instrument (State Jail Felony), Tampering with Government Record (Class A Misdemeanor), Evading Arrest with Motor Vehicle (3rd Degree Felony), and Unlawful Carrying of a Weapon (Class A Misdemeanor).

Following his arrest, Garza was arraigned on October 26, 2023, and was issued a $260,000 bond. Authorities believe this arrest will contribute to curbing the recent surge in auto thefts in the Brownsville area.