Family remembers 67‑year‑old advocate killed in crash sparked by car theft

A suspect is in jail after the Dallas Police Department said he hit and killed a man after stealing another person's car last week. 

The man who died has been identified as 67‑year‑old Jose Angel "Joey" Avila, who was widely known as a healthcare advocate.

His family tells CBS Texas the past few days have been filled with shock and grief.

"It goes from being sad, and sorrow, and bawling our eyes out, to laughing and smiling," said Paul Avila, Joey's brother.

Police detail chaotic sequence

Police have identified 25‑year‑old Tyrell Jones as the suspect. They say that on Thursday, April 16, around 5:25 p.m., a woman called police, stating Jones jumped into her car while she was driving along North Collett Avenue near Reiger Avenue.

A neighbor's camera captured Jones stumbling before falling into the middle of the road. Seconds later, an SUV passes by. According to the police report, the driver asks Jones if he needs medical attention. That's when Jones is seen running up to the car, yanking on the handle until he eventually breaks it. The driver attempts to get away, but moments later, Jones runs toward the car again. Police say after a struggle, the driver – fearing for her safety – gives up, and Jones takes off.

Crash sends cars onto sidewalk

Witnesses told police Jones was driving into oncoming traffic before crashing into another car about half a mile up the road. Investigators say the impact sent both vehicles onto the sidewalk, striking Joey, who family members say was walking home from the grocery store.

A memorial honoring Joey now marks the crash site. His brother Paul says he was in disbelief when he first heard the news.

"I came down here and checked on him, got into the apartment complex, and I see a detective's card on there," said Paul.

Family says Joey lived to serve

The family says Joey gave his time to helping others – volunteering with food banks, the Dallas Police, and at hospitals. He was also a prominent LGBTQ advocate and a board member of Prism Health North Texas. Loved ones have been reaching out nonstop, his family says, reflecting the impact he had.

"It's just heartfelt warmth, you know, that he physically touched the people that came across his path. For me, I feel joy, happiness," said Paul.

Suspect charged with murder

Dallas Police said Jones was arrested at the scene and taken to a hospital for treatment. After he was checked out, he was taken to jail and charged with murder and robbery of an individual. The department says the investigation is ongoing.

For now, Joey's family is choosing to focus on the light he brought to others.

"It's not about that individual. It ain't how he feels. It ain't about how we feel towards him because none of our family has ill will on anybody. We just hope that he gets the justice," said Paul.