Arrest Made in Brownsville Hit-and-Run: Suspect Charged with Aggravated Assault

On Saturday, January 27, 2024, Cameron County Sheriff Deputies responded to a serious hit-and-run incident on the 6500 block of Pierre Ave in Brownsville. At around 11:00hrs, witnesses reported a grey sports utility vehicle striking two pedestrians before fleeing the scene.

Upon arrival, Sheriff Deputies found a 26-year-old victim with major injuries to his lower extremities and a 22-year-old victim. The victims recounted that they were in their driveway when a grey SUV, driven by Porfirio Zuniga, passed by with revving engine and screeching tires. The vehicle then allegedly turned towards the victims at high speed, prompting them to move out of the way.

Despite their efforts to avoid the vehicle, the victims claimed that Zuniga intentionally drove into their driveway, striking the 26-year-old victim. The 22-year-old victim managed to jump on the hood, avoiding more severe injuries. Emergency Medical Services transported the injured victim to a local hospital for treatment.

Following leads, Sheriff Deputies located the suspect’s vehicle at a residence on the 6100 block of Southmost Road. Despite an initial search attempt, Zuniga was not found. However, at approximately 2:00 pm, Zuniga’s family members contacted the Sheriff’s Office, indicating his willingness to surrender.

Without further incident, Sheriff Deputies took Porfirio Zuniga into custody. He was subsequently arrested and transported to the Carrizales Rucker Detention Center, where he awaits arraignment. Zuniga faces two charges of Aggravated Assault, a 2nd Degree Felony, according to Texas Penal Code 22.02.