Zapata County Pursuit Ends in Rollover, Foot Chase, and Smuggling Arrest, According to Officials
ZAPATA COUNTY, TX — A high-risk pursuit that began in Starr County on Friday, November 29, 2025, ended in a rollover crash, a foot chase, and multiple felony smuggling charges after the driver attempted to flee law enforcement along U.S. Highway 83. The Zapata County Sheriff’s Office released details of the incident in an official statement.
The pursuit was first initiated by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department officers in Starr County. The fleeing vehicle continued north along U.S. Highway 83 before entering Zapata County. Deputies with the Zapata County Sheriff’s Office encountered the vehicle as it continued evading authorities and eventually turned onto Mesa Salinas Road.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, the driver, identified as Miguel Angel Delgado Guzman, lost control of the vehicle, causing it to roll over. Delgado Guzman exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Deputies said he actively resisted arrest. A directed energy weapon was deployed, allowing deputies to take him into custody.
Deputies discovered three undocumented individuals inside the overturned vehicle. All three sustained minor injuries and received immediate medical attention from emergency responders.
Delgado Guzman was transported to Laredo Medical Center for evaluation. After being medically cleared, he was booked into the Zapata County Regional Jail on multiple charges. The Sheriff’s Office listed the following:
Smuggling of Persons – Likelihood of Serious Bodily Injury or Death under Texas Penal Code 20.05(b)(1)(A).
Three counts, each a second-degree felony.
Resisting Arrest or Search under Texas Penal Code 38.03.
Class A misdemeanor.
Evading Arrest or Detention under Texas Penal Code 38.04.
Class A misdemeanor.
Evading Arrest or Detention with a Vehicle under Texas Penal Code 38.04(b)(2)(A).
Third-degree felony.
Sheriff Montes Praises Multi-Agency Response
Zapata County Sheriff Ramon E. Montes issued a statement recognizing the coordinated work of regional law enforcement and emergency services.
“I want to extend my sincere gratitude to all the assisting agencies whose quick actions and coordinated efforts ensured a swift and safe resolution to this dangerous situation,” Sheriff Montes said. He thanked U.S. Border Patrol, Texas DPS, Texas Parks and Wildlife, and the Zapata County Fire Department for their response.
The Sheriff stated that the incident demonstrates the readiness and cooperation of local, state, and federal agencies when facing threats to community safety.
The investigation remains active, and Delgado Guzman is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
About The Author
