Police Say Driver Took Backroads, Delayed Route During May Attack
A 42-year-old rideshare driver faces sexual assault charges after allegedly attacking a passenger during a May 6 trip in South Austin. Maurys Madruga-Mesa was arrested on September 13 and booked into Travis County Jail on a $40,000 bond. The Austin Police Department investigation revealed the driver acknowledged his wrongdoing during the assault but continued attacking the passenger while deliberately taking backroads to delay reaching their destination.
5 Key Points
- Maurys Madruga-Mesa, 42, was arrested on September 13 in connection with a May sexual assault.
- The assault occurred during a rideshare trip in South Austin on May 6.
- The victim reported multiple attacks during the single ride.
- Police obtained DNA evidence and the driver’s vehicle information from the rideshare company.
- The suspect is being held on a $40,000 bond at Travis County Jail.
Details of the May Assault
The victim’s ordeal began on what should have been a routine rideshare trip home through south Austin on May 6, 2024. After requesting the ride through a popular rideshare platform, the victim was picked up by driver Maurys Madruga-Mesa, 42. Court documents detail how the situation quickly turned dangerous as Madruga-Mesa allegedly began sexually assaulting the passenger multiple times during the journey. In a disturbing detail revealed in the arrest affidavit, Madruga-Mesa reportedly acknowledged his actions were wrong during the assault but continued attacking the passenger. The driver’s self-awareness of his criminal behavior and his decision to continue may prove significant as the case moves through the Travis County court system.
Route Manipulation and Escape
Rather than taking a direct route to the passenger’s destination, Madruga-Mesa deliberately chose backroads and alternative routes to prolong the journey, according to court documents. This calculated deviation from the expected route trapped the victim in the vehicle for an extended period. The victim told investigators that Madruga-Mesa consistently stalled their arrival, using unfamiliar streets to maintain control of the situation. The breakthrough came only when the vehicle finally approached the vicinity of the victim’s residence. At this point, the passenger managed to escape from the vehicle, ending the series of attacks. Court records indicate that once the victim fled, Madruga-Mesa quickly turned his vehicle around and sped away from the scene, suggesting consciousness of guilt.
Investigation and Arrest
The Austin Police Department’s investigation spanned more than four months, involving multiple investigative techniques to build their case. Detectives secured a DNA search warrant, a crucial step in gathering physical evidence. They also worked directly with the rideshare company to obtain detailed information about Madruga-Mesa’s vehicle and his activities as a driver. The investigation culminated in Madruga-Mesa’s arrest on September 13, 2024, when Travis County authorities took him into custody. He now faces sexual assault charges and remains in Travis County Jail under a $40,000 bond. Both the rideshare company and Madruga-Mesa’s legal representation have been contacted regarding the charges, though neither had provided public comment at the time of reporting. The case highlights ongoing concerns about passenger safety in rideshare services, particularly during late-night hours.
FAQ
Q: Can I take legal action if I was sexually assaulted or abused during an Uber/rideshare trip?
A: Yes, you may have the option to pursue a legal claim. Contact our legal experts to learn about your rights and start a free, confidential case review.
Q: When and where did the rideshare sexual assault occur?
A: The assault occurred on May 6, 2024, during a rideshare trip in south Austin, Texas. The victim requested a ride to their residence when the alleged attacks took place.
Q: Who is the suspect in the rideshare assault case?
A: Maurys Madruga-Mesa, a 42-year-old rideshare driver, was arrested and charged with sexual assault. He is currently held in Travis County Jail on a $40,000 bond.
Q: What specific actions did the suspect allegedly take during the assault?
A: According to court documents, Madruga-Mesa allegedly committed multiple sexual assaults during the ride, took backroads to delay reaching the destination, and continued the assault even while acknowledging his actions were wrong.
Q: How did the victim escape the situation?
A: The victim managed to exit the vehicle when it approached their residence. Court documents state that Madruga-Mesa quickly turned his vehicle around and drove away after the victim escaped.
Q: What evidence did police collect during the investigation?
A: Investigators obtained a DNA search warrant, questioned Madruga-Mesa, and requested information about his vehicle from the rideshare company.
Citations
Pauda, Erica (September 19, 2024). Affidavit: 42-year-old man arrested in connection with May rideshare sexual assault. KXAN. https://www.kxan.com/news/crime/affidavit-42-year-old-man-arrested-in-connection-with-may-rideshare-sexual-assault/
