Suspected Drunk Driver Arrested After 100 MPH Chase on Sam Houston Tollway

HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – A 38-year-old man was arrested early Sunday after deputies say he led law enforcement on a high-speed pursuit exceeding 100 mph along the Sam Houston Tollway before crashing and refusing to surrender.

According to the Harris County Precinct 8 Constable’s Office Toll Road Division, deputies responded at approximately 3:45 a.m. July 19 to reports of a blue Chrysler 300 being driven erratically southbound on the East Sam Houston Tollway.

When deputies attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver, identified as Jesse Nava, allegedly fled, reaching speeds of more than 100 mph and creating what authorities described as a significant danger to other motorists.

During the pursuit, investigators said Nava struck a concrete barrier, causing the Chrysler to lose a wheel. Despite the damage, he allegedly continued driving until the vehicle became disabled on the South Sam Houston Tollway near the Cullen Boulevard overpass.

Deputies said Nava refused repeated lawful commands to exit the disabled vehicle. Officers ultimately deployed a Taser and took him into custody after he continued resisting arrest.

The Harris County District Attorney’s Office accepted charges of driving while intoxicated and felony evading arrest or detention with a motor vehicle.

Nava was evaluated at the scene by the Houston Fire Department before being transported to the Harris County Joint Processing Center, where he was booked into jail.

Authorities said no bond had been set as of Sunday.