Driver in Fatal Hit-and-Run Found Hiding Under Bed in Maryland

The driver who allegedly struck two Hudson County, N.J. brothers in a fatal hit-and-run accident was found hiding under his cousin’s bed in Annapolis, Md., federal officials say.

Rogelio Chavix-Tacen, 38, of Guatemala was arrested Thursday, just a half hour before one of his alleged victims died in the hospital from injuries sustained in the North Bergen hit-and-run. He was found by the U.S. Marshals Service in his cousin’s Maryland home, NJ.com reports.

Police say that Chavix-Tacen struck Michael Viruet, 20, a student at Hudson County Community College, and his 11-year-old brother, Adrien, on Nov. 14 when his car jumped the curb of Kennedy Boulevard, between 31st and 32nd Streets, in a Red Nissan Rogue, NJ.com reports.

Michael Viruet, who had to have his right leg amputated after the crash, died Thursday morning after spending several weeks in the hospital, according to the family’s GoFundme page. His brother, Adrien, is recovering and going through therapy at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital in New Brunswick.

Chavix-Tacen, who is being held by police in Maryland, faces charges of death by auto, leaving the scene of an accident involving critical injury, and aggravated assault by auto, according to NJ.com. He will most likely appear in state Superior Court this coming week.

The two brothers were walking towards the pedestrian bridge with their sister, Mileen, 15, when they were struck by a red Nissan Rogue. Nearly 10 law enforcement agencies escalated a search for Chavix-Tacen after the vehicle was found parked on 72nd street, NJ.com reports.

Police noted that the search was difficult because Chavix-Tacen is not legally authorized to work in the U.S., has no criminal record, and does not have a driver’s license, a social security card nor finger prints on file. He is also known by multiple names. Authorities are still trying to determine if alcohol, drugs, or distractions could have caused the hit-and-run. According to NJ.com, the Nissan Rogue belonged to Chavix-Tacen’s employer, who could also face charges.

Viruet’s brother, Chris Bonilla, stated on the family’s GoFundme page that Michael is a “hero” who died to save his younger brother’s life. Supporters raised nearly $16,000 to help the family cover costs related to the tragic crash.

“He made the ultimate sacrifice anyone can ever make and that was to protect the younger siblings and take most of the impact from the car,” Bonilla said. “Michael Joseph Viruet is not only my hero, but everyone’s. We will live our lives honoring his by staying positive, giving advice and continuing to teach with life lessons.”

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