Trial Begins for Suspects Accused of Shooting at Deputies

SMITH COUNTY — Two more men are on trial for allegedly shooting at deputies during a high-speed chase in March of 2016. Jeremy Robinson (pictured), 33, of Hutchins, and Juan Quiroga, 19, of Tyler, are standing trial after officials said they were two of three people who shot at deputies on March 21, 2016. Smith County deputies tried to stop a black car with three men inside after it was spotted in an area known for illegal activity off State Highway 64 West in western Smith County. When a deputy activated his emergency lights, the driver refused to pull over and a chase began. Deputies followed the car at speeds of more than 100 miles per hour.

During the chase, two vehicles began receiving fire from the suspect car. Dashcam video showed bullets fired from the vehicle were striking the lead patrol car and also were narrowly missing the second deputy’s vehicle.

On March 22, 2016, the suspect vehicle was located at a south Tyler hotel. Robinson was placed under arrest and charged with aggravated assault on a peace officer. He was determined to be the driver of the vehicle who fired on deputies, according to the sheriff’s office. Quiroga turned himself in to the Smith County Sheriff’s Office on April 3, 2016.

The next day, authorities arrested Ricardo Pineda, 37, of Tyler, after learning he was possibly in northeast Arkansas. Pineda was found guilty on January 11 and was sentenced to life in prison.

The trials are set for 10:00 a.m.