Aiexpress – Annapolis resident, John Kaii-Ziegler, 64, turned himself in to the police several months after authorities identified him as a suspect in the death of 73-year-old Zarko Paruza in January 2023.
Around 10 p.m. on January 24, 2023, police were called to the unit block of Hilltop Lane, where Paruza was riding his bike when he was hit by a car and killed. The driver then quickly left the scene of the crime.
The next morning, residents of the neighborhood noticed a suspicious vehicle parked nearby and promptly alerted the Anne Arundel County Police Department. Thanks to their cooperation, investigators were able to identify Kaii-Ziegler as a person of interest in the case.
Kaii-Ziegler was indicted by a jury in Anne Arundel County on Friday, January 12. The charges against him include:
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- Negligent manslaughter;
- Criminally negligent manslaughter;
- Two counts of leaving the scene of an accident involving a death;
- Driving Under the Influence of alcohol;
- DWI;
- Reckless driving;
- Negligent driving;
- Causing the injury of an individual as the result of operation a vehicle.
Kaii-Ziegler voluntarily surrendered himself at the Annapolis Police Department on Thursday, January 18. Subsequently, he was transferred to the Anne Arundel County Detention Center to undergo an initial court appearance.
He is currently being held without bond at the Jennifer Road Detention Center.
“We are dedicated to providing closure to the victim’s family,” stated Annapolis Police Chief Ed Jackson, emphasizing the unwavering commitment of the Annapolis Police Department. “Accountability is a priority for our department, especially when it comes to holding reckless and dangerous drivers responsible for their actions.”
“We urge all motorists visiting Annapolis to prioritize safe driving,” he emphasized. “Our goal is to ensure the safety of fellow drivers, pedestrians, and cyclists as they navigate the roads of our beautiful city.”
