The Dallas Police Department has made an arrest in connection with a fatal hit-and-run crash that occurred on July 1, 2026 in the Pleasant Grove neighborhood. The incident, which claimed the life of 32-year-old Michael Turner has unfolded through a series of investigations and revelations.

The crash took place at the intersection of Buckner Boulevard and Elam Road just after 10 p.m.. The victim was crossing the roadway when he was struck by a white sedan traveling at a high rate of speed. Turner was tragically thrown about 60 feet and the driver fled the scene without stopping to render aid.

The Investigation Unfolds

Police responded to the scene around 10:10 p.m. and began their investigation immediately. Surveillance footage from a nearby Murphy USA gas station captured the crash and showed a white Ford Crown Victoria leaving the scene. Investigators also recovered the vehicle’s driver-side mirror, which had black duct tape wrapped around it.

Using automatic license plate reader cameras, police identified a white Ford Crown Victoria with an Oklahoma license plate near the crash scene minutes before and after the collision. The video showed the vehicle missing its driver’s side mirror after the crash. This critical piece of evidence led investigators to connect the vehicle to 23-year-old Jesus Manuel Ayala.

The Damaged Vehicle

On July 8, 2026 officers located the Crown Victoria concealed behind a fence at Ayala’s residence. The vehicle was covered with a tarp and miscellaneous items, its rear license plate had been removed, and the driver’s side mirror was missing. The damage to the vehicle was consistent with hitting a pedestrian.

Text Messages Reveal Attempt to Hide Vehicle

The affidavit details text messages investigators say Ayala sent to the mother of his child shortly after the crash. According to police, Ayala first texted, “Hey it’s important call me back.” When she asked what happened, investigators said Ayala responded, “I can’t say over the phone. If I get locked up just know I did my best, I’ll be out soon I promise.”

When she continued asking questions, the affidavit said that Ayala replied, “I can only tell you in person. I’m sorry. Don’t worry about me I’m so stupid.” After she asked whether he still had his car, investigators stated that Ayala responded, “Yes I can’t talk otp police are surrounding my house. they passed by 5 times idk I put my car away.”

Dallas police wrote that the timing of the text messages matched officers’ presence near Ayala’s residence after investigators linked the suspected vehicle to the address.

Family Seeks Justice

Before Ayala’s arrest, Turner’s mother, Elisa Estrada expressed her desire for justice. “I want the person to be caught. Not let out of jail, go to prison, something,” Estrada said. “He doesn’t need to be out because no one deserves that.”

The investigation into this tragic incident continues, with the Dallas Police Department working diligently to ensure that justice is served for the victim and his family.