The Houston crash occurred around 1 a.m. on February 24 at 4400 West Sam Houston Parkway South service road at the intersection with Clay Road.
Houston, TX – A 42-year-old woman was killed, and a 3-year-old boy was injured in a two-vehicle crash on the West Sam Houston Parkway South service road early Tuesday morning, according to the Houston Police Department.
The Houston crash occurred around 1 a.m. on February 24 at 4400 West Sam Houston Parkway South service road at the intersection with Clay Road.
Investigators said a white Chevrolet 2500 was traveling southbound when the driver failed to stop at a red light. The pickup struck a red Mitsubishi Mirage that was heading eastbound on Clay Road. Authorities determined the Mitsubishi had the right of way at the time of the collision.
Houston Fire Department paramedics pronounced the female driver of the Mitsubishi dead at the scene. Her identity is pending verification by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences. A 3-year-old boy seated in the back of the Mitsubishi was taken to a nearby hospital with minor injuries. The driver of the Chevrolet, 37-year-old Manuel Neri Mendoza, was not reported injured.
Police said Mendoza attempted to flee but was detained nearby by patrol officers. Authorities determined he was impaired and charged him with murder in the 496th Criminal District Court.
Officers with the Houston Police Department’s Vehicular Crimes Division responded to the scene and conducted the investigation.
The Houston crash led to a temporary closure of lanes along the service road as crews investigated and cleared the wreckage.
The case remains under investigation.
According to the Texas Department of Transportation, Texas recorded 4,283 traffic fatalities in 2023, with impaired driving listed as a contributing factor in a significant portion of deadly crashes. Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that thousands of lives are lost nationwide each year in crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers.
If you’ve lost a loved one in this deadly car accident, speaking with a skilled wrongful death attorney can help you understand your legal rights during this difficult time. An attorney can guide your family through the claims process, protect your interests, and pursue compensation for your loss. Reach out today for compassionate legal support and a free case evaluation.