Constable's Office Update on Deadly Midtown Crash Involving Impaired Driver

Tragic Midtown Collision

• 💔 A deadly crash occurred early Saturday morning in Midtown, resulting in the deaths of two innocent individuals.
• 😔 Constable James Smoky Phillips of Harris County Precinct 7 extended condolences to the victims' families.

Suspect and Pursuit Details

• 🚨 A precinct 7 deputy observed a black Ford F-150 involved in multiple hit-and-run incidents.
• 💨 The driver, later identified as 31-year-old Renee Hernandez, fled from a traffic stop at a high rate of speed, running multiple red lights.
• 💥 At Smith and Elgin Street, Hernandez's vehicle ran a red light and collided with a white Lexus, pushing it into a building where it caught fire.
• 🚗 The two occupants of the Lexus, who were reportedly in town for a fraternity and sorority event, were pronounced dead at the scene.

Suspect's Condition and Charges

• 🏥 Hernandez was taken into custody at the scene but is currently in the hospital for surgery due to injuries sustained in the collision.
• ⚖️ He has been charged with two counts of murder for the deaths of the Lexus occupants.
• 👩‍🦰 A female passenger in Hernandez's truck sustained non-threatening injuries and was transported to the hospital.

Investigation and Deputy's Status

• 🔍 The investigation is ongoing, involving the Harris County Constable's Office Precinct 7, Houston Police Department's Vehicle Crimes Division, and the Harris County District Attorney's office.
• 📹 Bodycam and vehicle footage of the incident exist but have not yet been released due to the ongoing investigation.
• 😥 Deputy Gatright, who initiated the pursuit, has been placed on administrative leave for emotional support, not due to policy violations.

Message on Impaired Driving

• ⚠️ This tragedy highlights the dangers of impaired driving in Texas.
• 🚫 The Constable urged young people not to drink and drive, recommending alternatives like Ubers or other transportation methods.
• 😥 The incident is particularly poignant for the department, recalling a similar tragedy involving Deputy Jennifer Chavis killed by a DWI driver.