The criminal case involving a fatal Corpus Christi hit-and-run crash is set to move into the courtroom next week as both prosecutors and defense attorneys confirmed they are prepared to proceed with trial.
The defendant, Garner Burford, 31, faces charges stemming from a 2024 crash that claimed the life of 27-year-old Marissa A. Mendoza and seriously injured another individual. Court officials announced that jury selection will begin Thursday, and opening testimony will start Monday.
The upcoming trial will revisit the events surrounding the early morning collision on South Padre Island Drive and determine whether Burford bears legal responsibility for the deadly crash.
Trial Scheduled After Attorneys Declare Readiness
During a recent court hearing, attorneys representing both sides informed the judge that the case is ready for trial. With no additional delays requested, the court set the timeline for jury selection followed by witness testimony.
The trial marks an important step in a case that has drawn attention since the fatal collision occurred in 2024. Prosecutors are expected to present evidence gathered during the investigation, while the defense will have the opportunity to challenge that evidence before a jury.
As proceedings begin, jurors will hear testimony from investigators, law enforcement officers, and other witnesses connected to the incident.
Deadly Crash Happened on South Padre Island Drive
Early Morning Collision Turned Fatal
According to court records, the crash occurred around 1:30 a.m. in the 2900 block of South Padre Island Drive near Kostoryz Road.
Investigators determined that Burford’s vehicle struck the rear of Mendoza’s vehicle while traveling along the roadway. The force of the impact reportedly pushed Mendoza’s vehicle into the support beam of a nearby building.
Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly afterward, but Mendoza suffered fatal injuries. Another individual involved in the collision was also injured.
The location is one of Corpus Christi’s busiest traffic corridors, making the crash particularly significant for local drivers concerned about roadway safety.
Investigation Focused on Driver Distraction
Affidavit Details Driver’s Statements
Investigators relied on witness interviews, physical evidence, and statements made after the crash to reconstruct what happened.
According to the probable cause affidavit, Burford allegedly admitted that he had been looking at his cellphone and was not paying attention to the road immediately before the collision.
Authorities believe the distraction prevented him from recognizing traffic conditions ahead, resulting in the rear-end impact.
Driver distraction continues to be one of the leading causes of serious traffic crashes across the United States. Looking away from the road for only a few seconds can significantly increase the risk of a collision, especially on busy roadways during nighttime hours.
The prosecution is expected to use these statements as part of its presentation during the trial.
Alleged Hit-and-Run After the Crash
Another major issue during the proceedings involves what happened immediately after the collision.
Police said Burford allegedly told officers he did not see Mendoza’s vehicle after the impact and believed it had continued driving. Based on that belief, investigators said he left the crash scene instead of stopping.
Law enforcement later identified and arrested Burford in connection with the incident.
Leaving the scene of a serious traffic crash often plays a significant role in criminal cases because the law requires drivers involved in collisions to stop, remain at the scene, and provide assistance or information when possible.
Whether Burford knowingly left the scene and how jurors interpret his statements could become important aspects of the trial.
What to Expect During the Trial
With jury selection beginning this week, attorneys will work to choose impartial jurors capable of evaluating the evidence fairly.
Once testimony begins, prosecutors will present crash reconstruction, police testimony, and investigative evidence. The defense will have the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses and present its own arguments.
The jury will ultimately decide whether the prosecution has proven its case beyond a reasonable doubt. The distracted driving and hit-and-run trial will likely draw public attention throughout the proceedings.
As testimony unfolds, additional details about the crash, the investigation, and the events leading up to the collision may emerge in court.