Driver Charged with Manslaughter After Fatal Crash in Central Southwest Houston

A suspect has been arrested in connection with a fatal auto-pedestrian crash that occurred at 4100 West Orem Drive in Central Southwest Houston at approximately 8:45 a.m. on Thursday, January 16. The suspect, 39-year-old Rwangamugayo Emmanuel, is charged with intoxication manslaughter and intoxication assault in the 209th State District Court. The identity of the deceased male, aged 35, is pending verification by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences.

HPD Vehicular Crimes Division Sergeant E. Alejandro and Officer M. Lozano reported that the male victim was working construction on the sidewalk near the entrance of a food store when Emmanuel, driving a silver Nissan Sentra, lost control of the vehicle while traveling westbound on West Orem. The car drove onto the raised concrete curb, striking the victim. The vehicle continued on the sidewalk, hitting another male construction worker before striking a light pole and spinning into a silver Lexus sedan.

Houston Fire Department paramedics responded to the scene, where the first male was pronounced dead. The second male construction worker suffered broken bones and was transported to the hospital in stable condition. The passenger in the Lexus was also transported with minor injuries, while the driver of the Lexus was unharmed.

Emmanuel, who was not injured, remained at the scene and showed signs of intoxication. After consultation with the Harris County District Attorney’s Office, Emmanuel was charged and booked into the Harris County Jail.