El Monte, California, is grappling with the aftermath of a tragic incident that resulted in the deaths of an Alhambra police officer and a passenger in a vehicle. Steven Ara Zapata, 27, has been charged with two counts of murder and several other felonies following a high-speed chase that ended in a fatal crash.
Court documents indicate that Zapata faces additional charges, including fleeing from a pursuing law enforcement vehicle leading to death and reckless driving causing injuries. The series of events unfolded on November 20, when a stolen Hyundai SUV, driven by Zapata with two passengers, collided with a police SUV operated by Officer Alec Sanders at about 3 a.m. The California Highway Patrol is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash.
During the collision, the Hyundai was propelled into a parking lot while Officer Sanders’ vehicle continued west on Valley Boulevard, striking a cement pole, and leaving debris scattered for nearly a block. Sanders, who was just 28 years old, was taken to Los Angeles General Medical Center but succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival. One of Zapata’s passengers, 42-year-old Gabriela Moreno, was ejected from the vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene. The other passenger, Felipe Ramirez, sustained significant injuries and was hospitalized, including at least one fracture.
Zapata himself sustained moderate injuries and remains hospitalized. His preliminary court appearance has been tentatively rescheduled as he continues to receive treatment, with expectations that he could appear in court later this week according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.
Officer Sanders had been a dedicated member of the Alhambra Police Department for only eight months at the time of the crash, having previously served with the Long Beach Police Department. Alhambra Police Chief Garrett Kennedy spoke highly of Sanders, noting his reliability, kindness, and strong work ethic that earned him the respect of colleagues. Friends and family described him as a fitness enthusiast and a dedicated supporter of the Dallas Cowboys. He leaves behind a fiancée, as well as his parents and three siblings.
In honor of Officer Sanders, a candlelight vigil is set to be held at the Alhambra police station on Tuesday. The community is invited to pay their respects and remember a man who was not only a protector of the public but also a cherished member of their community.