Baytown Police Officer Involved in Major Crash; Multiple Injuries Reported

UPDATE: The officer injured has been identified as Michael Hightower. He is a 2 1/2 year veteran with the Baytown Police Department. Michael has been released from the hospital following surgery for injuries sustained in the crash.

The Baytown Police Department is reconstructing the circumstances leading to this tragic event. Preliminary findings from in-car video and witness statements indicate that Officer Hightower had a green light and the right of way in the intersection where the crash occurred.

At the time of the incident, Officer Hightower was responding to an in-progress “persons with a weapon” call in which an officer was on scene and had requested additional units for assistance.

Original Post:

Baytown, TX – The Baytown Police Department’s Crash Reconstruction Team is investigating a serious crash involving an on-duty Baytown Police officer.

On October 23, 2025, at approximately 7:10 p.m., officers responded to a collision at the intersection of West Baker Road and Country Club Drive involving a marked patrol unit and a 2023 Honda Odyssey.

Preliminary reports indicate the officer, who was operating the patrol unit, sustained a leg injury and was transported by Life Flight for medical treatment. The officer is currently in stable condition.

The Honda Odyssey, driven by a Baytown woman and carrying five minors, was also involved. Two of the minors were transported by Life Flight, while the driver and remaining passengers received medical attention at the scene. The extent of their injuries has not yet been released.

Responding officers provided immediate life-saving care until Baytown EMS arrived and assumed treatment of the injured parties. The Baytown Police Department’s Crash Reconstruction Team, in coordination with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office Vehicular Crimes Division, is actively investigating the cause of the crash.

“This is a tragedy for everyone involved and impacted by this event,” said Police Chief John Stringer. “Our hearts, thoughts, and prayers are with the children and family involved, as well as our officer, the officer’s family, and the Baytown officers who responded to the scene. While this has been a difficult time, we are grateful our officer is in stable condition. The Traffic Reconstruction Team is conducting a thorough investigation, and we ask the community for patience and objectivity as we gather all information. I also want to recognize the professional and compassionate response of our officers who provided aid to all involved.”

The investigation remains ongoing.