A quiet West Texas evening shattered nearly three years ago in the town of Ozona, leaving a community reeling from unimaginable loss. A high-speed chase, fueled by reckless disregard for human life, culminated in a devastating crash that claimed the lives of a grandmother and her young granddaughter.
Rassian Nateray Comer, a man from Louisiana, now faces a 13-count federal indictment for his alleged role in the March 13, 2023, tragedy. The victims were Maria Socorro Tambunga, 71, and her seven-year-old granddaughter, Emilia, a bright second-grader at Ozona Elementary.
The pursuit began when a Texas Department of Public Safety trooper noticed a speeding Ram 1500 in Terrell County. Comer, authorities allege, refused to stop, instead accelerating onto Interstate 10 and quickly exceeding 100 miles per hour. His driving became increasingly erratic, crossing the highway median twice and even briefly traveling in the wrong direction.
As Comer approached Ozona, he allegedly sped through a red light at 84 mph, colliding violently with Maria Tambunga’s pickup truck. The impact was catastrophic; both Maria and Emilia were pronounced dead at the scene. The tragedy didn’t end there.
Inside Comer’s truck, authorities discovered eleven migrants who had recently entered the United States. Eight were crammed into the cab, while three were dangerously exposed in the truck bed. Two of those migrants, both Mexican nationals, succumbed to their injuries from the crash, and nine others suffered serious wounds.
Investigators revealed a chilling detail: during the chase, Comer allegedly broadcast live on Facebook, showing flashing police lights and a speedometer registering 105 mph. A stolen 9mm handgun was also found hidden under the truck’s brake pedal, adding another layer of danger to the already perilous situation.
Federal prosecutors believe Comer was operating as part of a larger human smuggling organization, exploiting vulnerable individuals for profit. The indictment includes charges of conspiracy to transport illegal aliens resulting in death, transportation of illegal aliens resulting in death, and possession of a stolen firearm.
If convicted on the most serious charges, Comer could face a life sentence in federal prison. The U.S. Attorney emphasized the gravity of the allegations and the commitment to holding those responsible accountable for such devastating consequences.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers of human smuggling, a criminal enterprise that puts lives at risk – not only those being transported, but also innocent members of the public. It’s a tragedy that underscores the human cost of these operations.
The pursuit of justice in this case represents a small measure of solace for a community forever marked by loss. It’s a testament to the dedication of law enforcement and prosecutors determined to bring closure and accountability to those affected by this senseless act of violence.
