Police cruiser at the scene.
Police cruiser at the scene.

Rockville Man Charged with Manslaughter in Fatal Pedestrian Crash

May 7, 2024

GAITHERSBURG, MD – A Rockville resident, Jose Isaac Zelaya, has been charged with manslaughter following a deadly pedestrian accident in December 2023. Zelaya allegedly struck 70-year-old Teresa Moreno De Mejia with his Toyota Supra as she crossed Veirs Mill Road at Atlantic Avenue. The incident occurred on Tuesday, December 26, and resulted in Moreno De Mejia’s death after a second vehicle also hit her. Both drivers stayed at the scene.

Montgomery County Police’s Collision Reconstruction Unit found that Zelaya was driving above the speed limit at the time of the accident. The 24-year-old faces multiple charges, including negligent driving and manslaughter by vehicle due to criminal negligence. The investigation is ongoing, and the driver of the second vehicle involved has not been charged. Zelaya was arrested on Friday, May 3.

Chris Quigley

Chris Quigley is a Staff Writer and Community News Correspondent for Shore News Network, where she covers local government, public safety, community affairs, politics, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey. Her reporting focuses on delivering timely, accurate, and relevant news that helps readers stay informed about the communities in which they live and work.

As a member of the Shore News Network editorial team, Quigley works closely with public officials, community leaders, first responders, and local organizations to provide factual coverage of breaking news, municipal government, public policy, and events affecting New Jersey residents. Her work highlights both major developments and the local stories that shape communities across the state.

Quigley is committed to responsible journalism, emphasizing accuracy, source verification, and transparency in every story she reports. She strives to present information in a clear and accessible manner, helping readers better understand the issues, decisions, and events that impact their daily lives.

Through her work at Shore News Network, Chris Quigley contributes to the organization's mission of providing trusted local news coverage, accountability reporting, and community-focused journalism throughout New Jersey.

Chris Quigley is a graduate of Stockton State University and began her career at IN Jersey, the online news and media branch of the Asbury Park Press. She also worked at Monmouth Internet, the Ocean Signal Newspaper, and JTOWN Magazine during her career in both content management and operations.

Degrees: Business B.A. - Stockton University

Experience and interests: Criminal Justice, Business, Animal Care, Entertainment, Lottery News, Local News