After more than four decades evading capture, David Vaquera, a 64-year-old man, was arrested by the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office on April 1. Vaquera had been on the run since 1983, when he was convicted of killing a person in a DUI crash in Los Angeles.
Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Arrest | April 1, 2026 |
| Charges | Violating probation from 1983 DUI-related manslaughter conviction in Los Angeles |
| Length of Time on the Run | 40+ years |
| Method of Evasion | Used several aliases to avoid detection over the years. |
| Revelation of Identity | Vaquera was arrested while deputies were serving an unrelated victims protection order. |
Vaquera’s Past Conviction
Vaquera had been convicted of manslaughter in Los Angeles after a DUI crash that resulted in the death of an individual. Following the conviction, he was placed on probation. However, he violated the terms of that probation, which led to the warrant for his arrest.
The Long Search
For over 40 years, Vaquera managed to avoid authorities by using multiple aliases, which helped him evade detection. His true identity remained hidden until Oklahoma County deputies were serving him with an unrelated victims protection order, at which point they uncovered his real name and past conviction.
The Arrest
The arrest marks the end of a long chapter in Vaquera’s life on the run. Law enforcement officials have praised the dedication and persistence that led to the eventual discovery of his true identity. His criminal history and history of evasion highlight the challenges faced by authorities in tracking down individuals who go into hiding for long periods.
Next Steps
Vaquera is now facing legal proceedings related to the violation of his probation, and his case is under investigation by local law enforcement.
After over 40 years on the run, David Vaquera has finally been captured, bringing closure to a long-running case. The fact that his true identity was uncovered during an unrelated investigation underscores the persistence of law enforcement agencies in seeking justice.
