Four Houston Firefighters Injured After Engine Struck by 18-Wheeler on US 59
UPDATE: All four crew members injured in this incident were transported to HCA Houston Healthcare Kingwood for evaluation with varying injuries, none of which were life-threatening.
- Captain Iris Rodriguez was released shortly after evaluation.
- Engineer Operator Jason Thompson has remained stable and is expected to be discharged Monday, December 1st.
- Firefighter Benjamin Abbott is recovering well and may also be discharged on Monday, December 1st.
- Firefighter Colbey Bailey underwent surgery, which was successful and went as planned. He is now in recovery.
“We are incredibly thankful that all four of our members are on the road to recovery,” said Chief Muñoz. “This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers our firefighters face every day, especially when blocking traffic on the freeway. We urge all drivers to slow down, move over, and stay alert when approaching emergency scenes. The lives of our first responders depend on it.”
The investigation into the accident and the driver is still ongoing.
Original Post:
Early Sunday morning, November 30, Houston Fire Department Engine 104 was blocking lanes on US 59 North near exit 151 for a motor vehicle accident when it was hit by an 18-wheeler.
All four firefighters were taken to a local hospital with injuries ranging in severity. Three remain hospitalized, but all are expected to make a full recovery.
“Blocking traffic on the freeway is one of the most dangerous tasks we do,” Fire Chief Thomas Muñoz said. “We’re extremely grateful that every member of Engine 104 is expected to recover, and we ask drivers to slow down and move over when they see emergency crews working.”
Houston Police are investigating the cause of the crash. HFD will release further updates as they become available.
