El Paso, Texas – Nearly two months after a hit-and-run crash claimed the life of a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) employee, a 19-year-old woman has been arrested and charged in connection with the fatal collision, according to El Paso authorities.
Tragic Early Morning Crash
The fatal incident occurred in the early morning hours of September 7, when David O’Connor, 52, was struck and killed while riding his electric-assisted bicycle along the 4600 block of Pershing Street in El Paso.
Officials said the crash happened at approximately 1:30 a.m., when a 2017 Kia Soul traveling in the same direction crashed into O’Connor from behind. Despite the impact, the driver did not stop to render aid and instead fled the scene, leaving O’Connor critically injured.
According to an arrest affidavit, O’Connor was wearing a reflective vest, and his bike was equipped with working lights at the time of the crash, making him visible to other drivers. When officers arrived, they found O’Connor had been thrown from his bicycle. He succumbed to his injuries at the scene and was pronounced dead.
Break in the Case
Authorities said the investigation took a significant turn when, about 12 hours after the crash, the suspect’s father brought her to the El Paso Police Department headquarters.
Accompanied by his daughter, Vivian Padilla, 19, the father reportedly told police, “She’s the one that hit that person yesterday.”
Investigators examined Padilla’s vehicle and found damage consistent with the crash, including broken car parts matching debris at the scene. Police also reported finding bloodstains inside and outside the vehicle.
According to the affidavit, Padilla is believed to have been using her phone during and after the collision, a detail investigators say may have contributed to the fatal crash.
Charges and Arrest
Padilla has been charged with collision involving death, a second-degree felony in Texas. She was booked into the El Paso County Downtown Detention Facility and held on a $50,000 bond.
As of Thursday, Padilla was no longer listed in custody, though it remains unclear whether she was released on bond or under other conditions.
Remembering David O’Connor
O’Connor, who worked as a TSA employee at El Paso International Airport, is being remembered for his kindness and love for the outdoors.
According to his obituary, O’Connor had a “deep love for nature and adventure,” and was known for “caring for his beloved pet turtle.” He is survived by his parents, siblings, nieces, and nephews.
Friends and coworkers described him as a dedicated employee and compassionate individual who enjoyed connecting with others and living life to the fullest.
Do you believe penalties for hit-and-run drivers should be more severe? How can communities better protect cyclists on the road? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
