“Requesting preventive detention for a traffic accident is absurd. The Public Ministry may request it, but no judge will impose such a measure,” Reyes asserted.

Reyes explained that the case involves reckless homicide, highlighting that the victim was seen in videos exiting a vehicle and crossing the road, where he was struck. The accused’s primary fault was not stopping and calling 911 immediately.

The potential sentence for reckless homicide ranges from 6 months to three years. However, Reyes noted that Mujica Zapata would likely not serve jail time, as her sentence would probably be suspended.

Accusation Against Mujica Zapata

The Public Ministry, represented by prosecutors Minerva Batista and Carmen Espinal Geo, accused Mujica Zapata of involuntary death due to reckless driving with a foreign license and evading responsibility post-accident. The crimes fall under articles 303 (section 5), 220, 207, 208, and 306 of the Mobility, Land Transportation, Traffic, and Road Safety Law.

The incident occurred on July 15 at around 11:30 p.m. Mujica Zapata allegedly hit Peralta while speeding near the General Directorate of Passport in the National District. After the accident, she allegedly abandoned the scene and provided false and delayed statements to authorities.

The Public Ministry’s evidence includes a police report, the victim’s death certificate, the vehicle’s license plate, testimonies, and other documents. The coercive measure is requested due to the accused’s lack of ties to the country and flight risk, as her Venezuelan passport expired in August 2022.