On a quiet Wednesday evening, June 4, 2025, the lives of two young men, Gabriel Castillo, 20, and Ezequiel Eduardo Garcia-Chicas, 22, both from Hyattsville, Maryland, were tragically cut short in a devastating accident in Baltimore City. The loss of these vibrant individuals has left their families, friends, and community grappling with grief, as authorities work diligently to piece together the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) officer involved, Jamal Cofield, a member of the Central Command Detachment-Patrol, now finds himself at the center of an ongoing investigation that seeks to uncover the truth behind this heartbreaking event.
The incident unfolded on a bustling Baltimore street, where Castillo and Garcia-Chicas, described by those who knew them as ambitious and full of promise, were involved in a fatal collision. Gabriel Castillo, the younger of the two, was known for his infectious optimism and dedication to his family. Ezequiel Eduardo Garcia-Chicas, just two years his senior, was remembered as a hardworking individual with dreams of building a brighter future. Both men, deeply rooted in their Hyattsville community, were said to have been inseparable, their bond forged through shared experiences and aspirations. Their untimely deaths have left a void that their loved ones are struggling to comprehend.
According to authorities, the accident occurred under circumstances that remain under intense scrutiny. The Maryland Office of the Attorney General’s Independent Investigations Division (IID) has taken the lead in examining the events leading up to the tragedy. While specific details about the collision have not been fully disclosed, preliminary reports suggest it involved a vehicle operated by Castillo and Garcia-Chicas and an encounter with Officer Cofield, whose actions are now being closely evaluated. The IID, tasked with ensuring transparency and accountability in incidents involving law enforcement, has emphasized that the investigation is in its early stages. They are actively seeking witnesses and additional evidence to construct a clear timeline of events.
Jamal Cofield, a seasoned officer with the MDTA, has served in the Central Command Detachment-Patrol, a unit responsible for maintaining safety across Maryland’s transportation infrastructure. His involvement in the incident has raised questions about the protocols and decision-making processes employed during the encounter. The IID has refrained from releasing further details about Cofield’s actions pending the investigation’s outcome, but they have assured the public that every aspect of the incident will be thoroughly reviewed. Authorities have urged anyone with information to come forward, providing a dedicated phone line and email address for tips that could aid in the investigation.
The loss of Castillo and Garcia-Chicas has sent ripples through Hyattsville, where community members have begun organizing vigils to honor their memory. Friends describe the pair as inseparable, often seen together at local events or working toward their personal goals. Castillo, who had recently enrolled in a trade program, was eager to build a career in construction, while Garcia-Chicas was known for his entrepreneurial spirit, often brainstorming ideas for small business ventures. Their deaths have sparked conversations about road safety and the broader implications of law enforcement interactions in high-pressure situations.
As the investigation continues, questions linger about what could have been done differently to prevent this tragedy. The IID’s work is expected to shed light on critical details, including the sequence of events, the role of Officer Cofield, and any contributing factors such as road conditions or vehicle speeds. Community leaders in Baltimore and Hyattsville are calling for patience and unity as the truth is sought, emphasizing the need for justice and closure for the families of Castillo and Garcia-Chicas.
This tragedy serves as a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of accountability in all interactions on our roads. For now, the families of Gabriel Castillo and Ezequiel Eduardo Garcia-Chicas mourn the loss of two young men whose futures were bright and whose absence will be felt for years to come. The community waits for answers, hoping that the investigation will provide clarity and a path toward healing. Those with information are encouraged to contact the IID at (410) 576-7070 or IID@oag.state.md.us, as every detail could prove vital in understanding this devastating event.
