A Phoenix man is facing a felony charge after authorities say he struck and killed his 1-year-old neighbor with a truck and then attempted to leave the country. The incident happened Sunday night at a mobile home community, according to Phoenix police.
The child, identified as Lupe Morales, was rushed to the hospital in critical condition after the crash but later died from his injuries. The suspect, identified as 35-year-old Carlos Rojas Mora, was taken into custody early Monday morning following an overnight search.
Incident
Phoenix police said officers were called to the scene shortly before 9 p.m. Sunday after receiving reports of a child struck by a vehicle. When officers arrived, they found Lupe Morales severely injured after being hit head-on by a truck.
Investigators said the child had wandered into the street outside his home and was not being supervised at the time of the crash. The truck allegedly driven by Mora did not stop after the collision.
Lupe was transported to a hospital, where he later died.
Suspect
Police identified Mora as the driver involved in the hit-and-run. Prosecutors described him as the child’s neighbor and an undocumented Mexican national.
Authorities allege that after the crash, Mora left the area in another vehicle rather than remaining at the scene. Investigators said he went to a friend’s home and asked to be driven to Mexico. That friend instead contacted Goodyear police to report him.
Court records indicate Mora later went to another residence. He was taken into custody early Monday during a traffic stop, where he was found riding as a backseat passenger.
Court
Mora appeared in court Monday afternoon on a charge of hit-and-run involving death. During the hearing, both of Lupe’s parents addressed the judge, describing the impact of their son’s death.
Lupe’s mother told the court she believed Mora should not be released, saying he fled instead of taking responsibility. Lupe’s father also asked for accountability, saying it was painful that Mora left the child without trying to help.
Prosecutors said Mora told investigators he fled because he believed Lupe’s father had a gun and feared being harmed. He also claimed he was on his way to a police station when he was arrested.
Investigation
Mora is currently being held on a $100,000 cash-only bond. No additional charges have been announced, and police have not released further details about the ongoing investigation.
Authorities have not commented on whether additional factors, such as speed or impairment, are suspected. The case remains under review as it moves through the court system.
FAQs
Who was the victim in the crash?
The victim was 1-year-old Lupe Morales.
Who is the suspect?
Carlos Rojas Mora, 35, a neighbor of the child.
What charge is Mora facing?
Hit-and-run involving death.
When was Mora arrested?
Early Monday morning after a traffic stop.
What bond was set in the case?
A $100,000 cash-only bond.
