
An off-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection officer in El Paso faces charges after firing 11 shots during a road rage incident, raising questions about law enforcement conduct and use of force.
At a Glance
- CBP officer Hector Luis Zubia charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon
- Incident occurred on September 6, 2023, near Downtown El Paso
- Zubia fired 11 shots at a car driven by 19-year-old Sebastian Cardoza
- Evidence suggests Zubia continued shooting after perceived threat had passed
- Zubia released on $250,000 bond; investigation ongoing
Off-Duty CBP Officer Involved in Road Rage Shooting
On September 6, 2023, an alarming incident unfolded near Downtown El Paso, Texas, involving an off-duty U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer. Hector Luis Zubia, 34, stands accused of firing 11 shots during a road rage confrontation with a teenage driver. The event has sparked concerns about law enforcement conduct and the use of force in non-threatening situations.
Zubia, who was in uniform but off-duty at the time, claimed he acted in self-defense when 19-year-old Sebastian Cardoza’s car allegedly posed a threat. However, the investigation has revealed discrepancies in Zubia’s account, leading to his arrest and charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.
Conflicting Accounts and Evidence
The incident began as a typical road rage encounter, with both parties admitting to aggressive driving. Zubia alleged that Cardoza’s vehicle struck his truck twice, prompting him to exit his vehicle with the intention of apprehending the teenager. Cardoza, on the other hand, claimed Zubia’s truck cut him off, and he only fled after hearing gunshots.
“Zubia claimed he began shooting because a car driven by an El Paso teenager came toward him, but gunshot damages allegedly indicated Zubia fired from behind “after the threat had passed,” the complaint stated.” – police
A witness corroborated Cardoza’s account, stating that Zubia’s truck appeared to be the aggressor in the situation. This testimony, along with physical evidence at the scene, has cast doubt on Zubia’s version of events.
Legal and Ethical Implications
The case raises significant questions about the discretionary use of force by law enforcement officers, especially when off-duty. Texas law does not permit CBP officers to take police action outside of a border port of entry, meaning Zubia lacked federal law enforcement authority in this situation.
“The investigation revealed both vehicles came to a stop at the entrance ramp to 375 East. Zubia alleged to have fired a gun at Cardoza when he drove at him. The Crimes Against Persons Unit took over the investigation. Through their investigation, it was revealed that Zubia’s accounts of what happened were not consistent with the evidence at the scene.” – El Paso Police Department
Investigators found evidence suggesting that Zubia continued shooting after Cardoza’s car had passed him, contradicting his claim of imminent danger. This finding has intensified scrutiny of Zubia’s actions and decision-making during the incident.
Ongoing Investigation and Public Safety Concerns
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to determine the appropriate course of action. The incident has sparked a broader discussion about public safety and the responsibilities of law enforcement officers, both on and off duty.
The case of Hector Luis Zubia serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and proper conduct in law enforcement. As the legal process unfolds, it will likely have implications for future training and protocols regarding off-duty officers and their use of force in civilian encounters.
Sources:
- Off-duty CBP officer fires 11 shots during road rage incident in El Paso
- Off-duty El Paso CBP officer arrested in road rage shooting of teen’s car near Downtown
- Off-duty CBP Officer ‘Fired 11 Shots During Road Rage Incident In El Paso’