Forney, TX — Basilio Mares Ortiz, a 35-year-old man, has been booked into the Kaufman County Jail on January 3, 2025, after being transferred from Mesquite Jail. Ortiz faces four counts of intoxication manslaughter stemming from a tragic accident that occurred on New Year’s Eve along Interstate 20 at the intersection with FM 740.
Forney, TX — Basilio Mares Ortiz, a 35-year-old man, has been booked into the Kaufman County Jail on January 3, 2025, after being transferred from Mesquite Jail. Ortiz faces four counts of intoxication manslaughter stemming from a tragic accident that occurred on New Year’s Eve along Interstate 20 at the intersection with FM 740.
The devastating incident claimed the lives of four individuals, all residents of Terrell, Texas. The victims have been identified as Arturo Martinez Gonzalez, 47, Anthony Hernandez, 19, Mario Guajardo De La Paz, 19, and a 15-year-old male whose name has not been disclosed due to his age.
According to the Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office, Ortiz was arrested following the New Year’s Eve collision, which authorities believe was exacerbated by intoxication. The seriousness of the charges reflects the impact of the event on the victims' families and the community.
Booking Information:
- Date of Birth: January 14, 1989
- Race: White
- Sex: Male
- Eye Color: Brown
- Hair Color: Black
- Weight: 160 lbs
- Height: 5 ft 5 in
- Admit Date: January 3, 2025
- Admit Time: 8:45 PM
- Housing Location: A02B-10
- Confining Agency: Kaufman County Sheriff's Office
Charges:
- Offense: Intoxication Manslaughter with Vehicle
- Offense Date: January 3, 2025
- Docket Number: KAUFMAN - TX1290000
- Bond: $250,000.00 (Surety Bond)
- Arresting Agency: Mesquite PD / Kaufman County SO
Ortiz's bond has been set at $250,000 for each count of intoxication manslaughter, totaling $1 million. He remains in custody as the investigation continues, and the case is expected to garner significant attention as it progresses through the legal system.
The Kaufman County community mourns the loss of the victims and is calling for justice in the wake of this tragic event. Authorities urge anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward as the investigation develops.
