Marissa Mendoza Killed in Corpus Christi Hit-and-Run on SPID near Kostoryz; Garner Burford Arrested

Corpus Christi, Texas – The person who was killed early Saturday morning in a hit-and-run accident in Corpus Christi has been identified as 27-year-old Marissa A. Mendoza, according to the police.

The fatal crash happened around 1:30 a.m., March 2, in the 2900 block of South Padre Island Drive near Kostoryz.

Police said Garner Burford, 31, was driving when he rear-ended Mendoza’s car.

Mendoza’s car then left the highway and hit the Oh My Goodness craft store. 

Mendoza was pronounced dead at the scene. Her 23-year-old male passenger was taken to a local hospital for treatment.

Burford fled the scene but was later arrested. He was taken to Christus Spohn Shoreline where he was medically cleared. He confessed to the officers that he was looking at his cell phone when he rear-ended the other vehicle. He was then taken and booked into the City Detention Center. Investigators obtained a warrant for Burford for accident involving injury or death on a bond of $75,000. 

The crash remains under investigation.

Common Causes of Automobile Accidents

There are many different reasons why automobile, pedestrian, 18-wheeler, bicycle, and motorcycle accidents occur, including driver negligence, driver inattention, texting and driving, speeding, fatigue, failure to yield the right of way from a stop sign, or private drive, running a red light, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While the factors listed above are the main causes of most accidents, there may also be other factors involved, which is why it’s important that an investigation be conducted before evidence disappears, especially in cases involving a fatality.  At Joel A. Gordon & Associates, we will act quickly to secure accident scene photos, interview witnesses, obtain police records, and secure other valuable evidence needed to win your case.  Call now for a free consultation.

To speak with an attorney Click to call: 281-943-5555.