The Caguas Prosecutor's Office has filed charges against Lillibeth Carrión Castro, 20, for allegedly causing a traffic accident that resulted in the death of Police Officer Aníbal Morales Aponte, 53, on January 7. Carrión Castro is accused of driving negligently and recklessly when she ran a red light and made an improper turn, colliding with Morales Aponte's police motorcycle. Morales Aponte suffered multiple injuries and died seven days later in a hospital.
Judge María T. Hernández Calsada set a $20,000 bond for Carrión Castro, who was released under electronic supervision. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 14.
Secretary of Justice Lourdes Gómez Torres stated that the loss of Officer Morales Aponte is a tragedy and that driving is a responsibility that requires prudence and respect for the lives of others. The justice system will investigate the facts and demand accountability according to the law.