SAPD officer dies after being run over by common law wife during hit-and-run

Ernesto Vasquez run over on New Year's Eve

SAN ANTONIO – San Antonio police officer Ernesto Vasquez died Sunday, months after he was run over by his common law wife.

"He's been in a convalescent home for the last several months and he really came out of his coma," Police Chief William McManus said.

Vasquez was an eight-year veteran at SAPD and assigned to north patrol. Vasquez was off duty when he was hit by an SUV while attempting to walk across the 12600 block of Blanco Road around 11 p.m. on New Year's Eve.

"We had hoped for the best. That he would come around, but it didn't happen," McManus said.

The person charged in the crime was identified as Diana Lopez, his common law wife. Lopez was arrested in Laredo, Texas, nearly two months after Vasquez was run over.

"His common law wife was charged with failure to stop and render aid. She's the one that struck him," McManus said.

The chief said it was unclear if the Lopez would face additional charges. He said that decision would come from the district attorney’s offices.

Vasquez leaves behind three children.


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