SAN ANTONIO, Texas — A 20-year-old man, Gabriel Rosas, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison — the maximum penalty — after pleading guilty to intoxication manslaughter in the tragic death of his 49-year-old co-worker, Margaret Ureste, outside a Walmart in San Antonio earlier this year.
Fatal Incident Outside San Antonio Walmart
The deadly crash occurred in April 2024 at the Walmart located at 2100 Southeast Loop 410 Access Road. According to the Bexar County District Attorney’s Office, Rosas had consumed alcohol during his lunch break before driving through the parking lot and striking Ureste, who was walking to her car after finishing her shift.
San Antonio Police responded to the scene to find Ureste injured and unresponsive, while Rosas remained detained nearby. She was rushed to a local hospital but was later pronounced dead on May 1, 2024, just days after the incident.
Surveillance video captured officers speaking with Rosas in the parking lot following the crash, showing the somber aftermath of a preventable tragedy.
Court Sentencing and Prosecutors’ Statement
On Tuesday, Rosas was formally sentenced to 20 years in prison after reaching a plea deal with prosecutors. The conviction marks the maximum sentence allowed under Texas law for intoxication manslaughter.
Bexar County District Attorney Joe Gonzales issued a statement underscoring the devastating impact of Rosas’s actions:
“This case is a reminder of the life-altering consequences that stem from drinking and driving,” Gonzales said. “We are thankful the court recognized the gravity of this offense and delivered justice for Margaret’s family.”
Remembering Margaret Ureste
According to her obituary, Margaret Ureste had worked as a retail associate at Walmart for six years and was known as a dedicated employee and a loving mother.
“When she was not working, she enjoyed being with her family, going out, or just simply relaxing on the sofa playing on her phone,” her obituary reads.
Ureste leaves behind three children, who continue to mourn the sudden and senseless loss of their mother.
Community Reaction
The tragedy has shaken the San Antonio community, highlighting once again the dangers of drinking and driving — especially among young drivers.
Residents and local advocates have called for increased awareness campaigns and stricter enforcement of DUI laws to prevent future tragedies like this one.
Rosas, now serving his 20-year prison sentence, will spend much of his adulthood behind bars — a consequence prosecutors say reflects the seriousness of his crime.
Do you think the 20-year sentence was fair for this tragic case? Share your thoughts and reactions in the comments below.
