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Carjacking rampage victim recovering after being run down

Mario Abalos run over in February by Manuel Garcia

SAN ANTONIO – Mentally, physically and emotionally life is much different for Mario Abalos as he recovers from being run down in a carjacking rampage.

Abalos has been confined to a wheelchair and dependent on others during his recovery.

"I have a broken fibula, he broke my left ankle here. I have three vertebrae broke or fractured, (a) fractured scapula and a laceration on my head," Abalos said.

Abalos was one of six people intentionally run down by Manuel Garcia, 40, on Feb. 18. Garcia stole his friend's car and proceeded to run over several people, killing two.

Abalos said he remembers it like it was yesterday.

"I was crossing the road on Commerce and Pine (streets), and I saw this silver car come toward me. (I) didn't think much of it, then he just put the pedal to the metal. Literally (he) skidded out towards me (and) hit me. I got up and was like, 'What the hell man?' and then he backed up and hit me again," Abalos said.

Samuel White, 53, and Patrick Moore, 58, died and four others, including Abalos, were left seriously injured.

"My heart goes out to you guys and I'm praying for your healing physically and emotionally. And its unfortunate, but you aren't alone," said Abalos.

The rampage finally came to an end at the intersection of Cherry and Commerce.

"Now it's like you see vehicles and I don't know which one is going to turn and try and hit me now," Abalos said.

Abalos knows the road to recovery will take time. He had his first physical therapy appointment Thursday afternoon.

He'll stay with family until he is able to take care of himself.

Garcia faces two counts of capital murder.


About the Author
Bill Barajas headshot

Reporter, proud Houstonian, U of H alumni, and lover of all the hometown sport teams.

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