GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. – A man has been indicted by a grand jury for his role in a high-speed chase that led to the death of Georgia State Trooper Jimmy Cenescar, 28. The tragic incident occurred on January 28th, during a pursuit on Interstate 85 that ended in Suwanee when Cenescar’s patrol car crashed into an embankment near SR 317.
The man accused in this case, Gerson Danilo Ayala-Rodriguez, 21, is facing charges of felony murder, first-degree vehicular homicide, tampering with evidence, and three counts of fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer. In addition to these serious charges, Ayala-Rodriguez is also confronted with misdemeanor charges for reckless driving, speeding, driving without a license, operating a vehicle without insurance, and operating an unregistered vehicle.
Following the indictment announcement by the DA’s Office, Gwinnett County District Attorney Patsy Austin-Gatson emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “The important thing to remember is that this defendant’s reckless behavior led to the tragic death of Trooper Jimmy Cenescar. This was inexcusable, and we intend to prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law.”
Family and friends of Trooper Cenescar gathered for a funeral in February to honor his life and service. As for Ayala-Rodriguez, he currently remains in custody at the Gwinnett County Jail without bond as he awaits trial for his alleged involvement in the fatal chase.
The loss of Trooper Cenescar has deeply impacted the Georgia State Patrol community, highlighting the dangers law enforcement officers face daily while carrying out their duties to protect and serve the public. The pursuit that led to his death serves as a tragic reminder of the risks involved in law enforcement and the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions when they result in such devastating consequences.