Driver Killed in High-Speed Collision with Wrecker on East Freeway

On Sunday, January 19, 2025, at approximately 2:39 AM, the Harris County Sheriff’s Office – Vehicular Crimes Division responded to a fatal crash in the 16300 block of East Freeway (I-10). The westbound lanes were shut down as vehicles were diverted to the service road.

A silver Cadillac ATS, driven by Juan Hernandez, was traveling at a high rate of speed when it struck a wrecker truck that had its emergency lights activated while assisting with a road closure. Deputies were able to pull Hernandez from the wreckage and initiated lifesaving measures until Channelview EMS arrived. Despite their efforts, Hernandez was declared deceased at 3:04 AM by EMS.

Two wrecker operators were taken to the hospital with minor injuries. A deputy was also injured while breaking glass and attempting to pull Hernandez out of the vehicle. He was treated on-scene.  

Preliminary findings suggest that Hernandez was not wearing his seatbelt at the time of the crash, and several open alcoholic beverage containers were found inside the Cadillac. The Harris County Sheriff’s Office Vehicular Crimes Division is continuing to investigate the incident.