YOAKUM, TX — January 2026
A Yoakum man has been arrested in connection with the death of 30‑year‑old Emilio Garcia, whose body was discovered following a hit‑and‑run incident that has left his family and community grieving.
According to the Yoakum Police Department, officers received a report of a missing person on Sunday, January 18, 2026. The report was filed by Garcia’s brother, John who uses a wheelchair and depended on Garcia for daily care. A search was initiated, and Garcia was later found deceased in the 300 block of S. South St. in Yoakum. Investigators determined that he had been struck on East Hugo Street and left unattended for more than an hour before emergency services were notified. Despite life‑saving attempts, Garcia died from his injuries.
The brother, John Garcia quickly requested camera footage from a nearby convenience store, and his findings were shared with the Yoakum Police Department. Police identified a suspect vehicle located in Sweet Home, Texas.
Yoakum Police Officers took Ayden Janak of Yoakum into custody where he was charged with manslaughter. The Yoakum Police Department has not released any further details, and the case remains under active investigation.
Garcia’s death has devasted his brother who says Emilio was his best friend, and he relied on him not only for physical assistance but for friendship and support. In the wake of the tragedy, he has established a GoFundMe campaign to help cover funeral expenses and to honor Garcia’s memory.