HOUSTON – A suspected drunk driver has been charged in the death of a Houston-area deputy constable after being accused of slamming into the back of the officer’s vehicle, causing it to burst into flames, officials said Sunday.
At around 6 p.m. Saturday, authorities received calls about a possibly intoxicated driver in a large truck who had fled an accident, said Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.
Recommended Videos
Harris County Precinct 7 Deputy Constable Jennifer Chavis parked her patrol vehicle on the side of a Houston freeway and waited for the driver to pass so she could then follow and pull him over, authorities said.
But the driver ended up crashing into the back of Chavis’ patrol car, said Harris County Sheriff’s Office Capt. Anthony McConnell.
After the collision, several witnesses jumped out and prevented the suspected drunk driver, later identified as Adolfo Serrano, from leaving.
“My heart is hurting and I just ask you that you pray for the family and the friends of this constable,” McConnell said.
Serrano was injured in the crash and taken to a hospital.
Serrano, 36, was charged with intoxication manslaughter of a peace officer.
Court records did not list an attorney who could speak on Serrano’s behalf.
Gov. Greg Abbott issued a statement on Chavis’ death Sunday afternoon.
“We are heartbroken to hear about the loss of Harris County Precinct 7 Deputy Constable Jennifer Chavis who was protecting Texans from a drunk driver on the roadway last night,” said Governor Abbott. “As we remember the risks our law enforcement officers take every day to protect our communities, I ask that Texans join the First Lady and me in praying for the family and loved ones of Deputy Chavis, as well as the entire Harris County Constable’s Office.”
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick also spoke out following the news of the fatal crash.
“Please join Jan and me in prayer for the family of Harris County Precinct 7 Deputy Constable Jennifer Chavis. Her death, caused by an accident with a suspected drunk driver, is a solemn reminder that our brave law enforcement officers constantly put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe. Texans are thankful for their commitment to duty and the risks they take on our behalf.”