MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas (TNND) — A Texas deputy was struck and killed by a commercial truck early Sunday while responding to a crash on Interstate 45 in The Woodlands.
According to the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, the incident occurred around 2:39 a.m. near the Woodlands Parkway exit on I-45 North.
Deputies were responding to multiple 911 calls about a multi-vehicle crash. During traffic direction at the scene of what officials described as a DWI-related incident, a heavy-duty truck struck Deputy Erika Serrato, who was outside her patrol vehicle.
The truck also collided with two marked patrol vehicles that had their emergency lights activated, authorities said.
Deputy Serrato, 24, was transported to a local hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries. She had served with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office for six years, assigned to District 2.
Another deputy sustained minor injuries from debris and was treated at a local hospital before being released.
Authorities reported that Ashton Jammer, 34, the driver involved in the initial crash, has been charged with Driving While Intoxicated and is awaiting booking into the Montgomery County Jail.
The driver of the commercial truck that struck Deputy Serrato was also hospitalized. The incident remains under investigation.
Sheriff Wesley Doolittle expressed condolences, stating, “Our hearts are broken today. Deputy Serrato made the ultimate sacrifice while serving and protecting our community.”
The sheriff's office thanked various agencies, including the Texas Department of Public Safety and local police departments, for their assistance at the scene.
Further details, including funeral arrangements for Deputy Serrato, will be forthcoming.