Houston police say that four people lost their lives in a crash that was likely caused by a driver suspected of driving while intoxicated on June 22. The accident was still being investigated by authorities by June 23.
Around 10 p.m., four people from ages 60-80 were returning from a graduation party. According to police reports, their Honda Civic was struck when an SUV driven by 31-year-old driver ran a red light at the intersection of Synott and Beechnut. The impact killed the driver of the Honda as well as three passengers in the back seat of the vehicle.
The police report that when they arrived at the scene, they found that the driver appeared to be intoxicated and was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. The driver was transported to a Houston area hospital after suffering unknown injuries. According to police, a third passenger in the other car was also taken to the hospital but is expected to survive. Following an investigation at the scene, police charged the driver with intoxication manslaughter under Texas law.
Driving under the influence and intoxication manslaughter are serious legal charges, and a defendant facing them will need guidance before the court. These charges can lead to severe penalties, including license suspension, a prison sentence, fines and other penalties. In a case such as this one involving the death of an individual, the family of the deceased person may decide to file suit for wrongful death. A successful DUI defense requires experience and knowledge of Texas criminal law. A person currently facing a charge of DUI, DWI or intoxication manslaughter does not have to appear before the court without dedicated legal representation. An experienced defense attorney can help a defendant prepare a plan for the trial.
Source: News 92 FM, “Suspected Drunk Driver Charged in Quadruple Fatal Crash“, Kristy Gillentine, June 23, 2014