Crash in Austin Leaves Four Dead, Suspect Arrested for Intoxication Manslaughter

A horrifying crash occurred in the early hours of Sunday, July 30, 2023, in the 4700 Block of S IH 35 SVRD SB in Austin, Texas. Austin Police Department (APD) officers rushed to the scene at 2:32 a.m. after receiving reports of a collision between a sedan and an SUV.

The impact of the crash was devastating, resulting in the death of four individuals who were traveling in the SUV. Tragically, they were pronounced dead at the scene. Additionally, a fifth person from the SUV sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

Compounding the tragedy, the driver of the sedan, identified as Arthur Wright, fled the scene on foot immediately after the collision. Law enforcement launched a swift manhunt and managed to apprehend Wright a short time later. He now faces serious charges for his alleged role in the incident.

Wright has been charged with four counts of Intoxication Manslaughter, indicating that authorities suspect alcohol or drug impairment as a factor in the crash. Furthermore, he faces four counts of Failure to Stop and Render Aid, suggesting that he failed to provide assistance to the victims or report the accident to the authorities as required by law.

This heartbreaking incident marks Austin’s 54th fatal crash of the year 2023, with a total death toll of 57 people. Compared to the same date in the previous year, when there were 62 fatal crashes resulting in 63 deaths, it highlights the continuing importance of road safety and vigilance while driving.

Anyone with any information should contact APD’s Vehicular Homicide unit at 512-974-8111. You may submit your tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477.