Fatal Collision on Northwest Freeway Entrance Ramp Claims Life of Wrecker Operator

An accident occurred on Tuesday, February 13, 2024, at around 3:32 PM local time on the entrance ramp of the 15200 block of Northwest Freeway. Joseph Ramirez was driving a white Dodge Ram 4500, towing a black 2015 Odom Utility Trailer, with Theodore Muniz and Javier Guerrero as passengers. Elieser Alonso was operating a white 2019 Dodge Promaster with Darian Leiva as the front right passenger.

At the same time, a white 2013 Isuzu NRR Flatbed Wrecker, driven by Simon Garcia, was stopped in the right lane loading a disabled vehicle, with Mr. Garcia standing outside the vehicle near the driver’s door.

As Mr. Alonso attempted to maneuver into the left lane to avoid hitting the Isuzu, a collision occurred. The left front quarter of the Promaster struck the right back quarter of the Odom Utility Trailer. This impact caused Mr. Alonso to continue into the left lane, striking the left back quarter of the Isuzu with the right front quarter of the Promaster. Unfortunately, Mr. Garcia was struck by the Promaster, resulting in serious injuries.

Emergency services responded and Mr. Garcia was transported to Memorial Hermann Greater Heights, where he was pronounced deceased.

All other individuals involved in the crash did not sustain injuries. Both Mr. Ramirez and Mr. Alonso cooperated with authorities and did not exhibit signs of impairment.

The crash remains under investigation.