Dallas, September 15, 2025
News Summary
Angel Vergara Rojas, 21, has been arrested by Dallas police for his alleged involvement in a hit-and-run crash that resulted in the death of 29-year-old comedian Henry Cruz. The incident occurred as Cruz was walking home after performing at a comedy club. The investigation is still ongoing as authorities delve into the circumstances surrounding the crash and Rojas’s arrest. Community members are mourning the loss of Cruz, known for his vibrant personality, while also raising concerns about pedestrian safety in urban environments.
Dallas — 21-year-old Angel Vergara Rojas was arrested by Dallas police on September 3 on suspicion of involvement in a fatal hit-and-run that killed 29-year-old comedian Henry Cruz. Rojas faces a charge of collision involving death, and the investigation into the circumstances of the crash and the events leading up to the arrest remains active.
What happened
Police report that the collision occurred on August 23 at approximately 2:45 a.m. near Elm Street and the westbound ramp for Interstate 345. Cruz was struck while walking home after performing at Shark’s Comedy Club. Cruz and several friends were walking toward Elm Street to request a ride when the vehicle involved reportedly mounted the curb and struck Cruz. Two friends who witnessed the incident reported that the car was traveling at a high rate of speed before it left the roadway.
Immediate response and outcome
After the collision, Cruz’s friends called emergency services and performed chest compressions until paramedics arrived. Cruz was transported to a hospital and later died from injuries sustained in the collision. Authorities opened an investigation into the hit-and-run. Rojas was arrested later and charged with collision involving death; additional details about the arrest and any potential motive or contributing factors have not been released by investigators.
Victim and community response
Henry Cruz, 29, was known locally as a comedian who regularly performed at downtown venues. Family members and peers described him as someone who brought laughter and joy to those who knew him and remembered him for a positive personality and generosity. The local comedy community organized a memorial gathering to honor Cruz’s life and contributions to the arts scene.
Ongoing investigation
Dallas police continue to investigate the hit-and-run to establish a full timeline, confirm the vehicle’s path and speed, and determine whether any additional charges will be filed. Investigators have not released all investigative details, including whether other criminal charges are being considered or whether any additional suspects or witnesses have been identified. Officers are expected to review surveillance footage, witness statements and any physical evidence from the crash site as part of the ongoing inquiry.
Legal status
Rojas is in custody facing a charge of collision involving death. At this stage, the charge indicates suspicion that a motor vehicle collision caused the death of another person, and prosecutors and investigators will determine whether to pursue further charges after reviewing evidence. Court dates, bail status and any planned appearances have not been publicly disclosed at the time of this report.
Context and safety concerns
The incident highlights continuing concerns about pedestrian safety in urban areas, particularly late at night when foot traffic, reduced visibility and high-speed traffic can combine to create dangerous conditions. Pedestrian collisions in cities often involve factors such as impaired driving, excessive speed, roadway design that places walkers close to fast-moving traffic, and limited lighting. City and traffic safety officials regularly point to infrastructure improvements, driver enforcement and public education as common strategies to reduce such tragedies.
What comes next
Authorities continue to gather evidence and interview witnesses. Criminal proceedings, if pursued, will follow local court procedures. Community members and those who knew Cruz are expected to be involved in memorials and remembrance activities while awaiting further developments in the legal case. Officials have not announced any changes in traffic enforcement or safety measures specific to this location pending the outcome of the investigation.
Background on location and timing
The collision occurred near a downtown exit ramp connecting to a major interstate in the early hours of the morning, a time when late-night entertainment venues typically close and patrons walk between venues or to rideshare pickup points. Exit ramps and curbside areas near entertainment districts can present heightened risk for pedestrians if vehicles do not reduce speed or if drivers lose control.
FAQ
Who was the victim?
The victim was 29-year-old comedian Henry Cruz, who had performed earlier that night at Shark’s Comedy Club and was walking home with friends at the time of the incident.
Who was arrested and what is the charge?
Police arrested 21-year-old Angel Vergara Rojas on September 3. He is charged with collision involving death in connection with the hit-and-run.
When and where did the collision occur?
The collision occurred on August 23 at about 2:45 a.m. near Elm Street and the westbound Interstate 345 ramp in Dallas.
What is the status of the investigation?
Investigators are still gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses. Some investigatory details, including potential additional charges and the full circumstances of the arrest, have not been released.
Were any safety measures announced?
No specific safety measures tied to this location have been announced by officials pending the outcome of the investigation. The incident has drawn attention to broader pedestrian safety concerns in urban areas.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| City | Dallas |
| Victim | Henry Cruz, 29, local comedian |
| Suspect | Angel Vergara Rojas, 21 (arrested Sept 3) |
| Charge | Collision involving death |
| Date & Time | August 23, ~2:45 a.m. |
| Location | Near Elm Street and westbound I-345 ramp |
| Context | Victim was returning from a performance; incident underscores urban pedestrian safety concerns |
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Additional Resources
- Fox 4 News: Suspect Arrested in Dallas Comedian’s Hit-and-Run Death
- Wikipedia: Pedestrian Safety
- NBC DFW: Motel Beheading Criminal History
- Google Search: Hit-and-Run Dallas
- Dallas News: Speeding Vehicle in Dallas Leads to Fatal Crash
- Google Scholar: Traffic Safety Urban Areas
- Fox 4 News: Grand Prairie Police Shooting Legal Consequences
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Road Traffic Accidental Death
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
DALLAS STAFF WRITER The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
