MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas (TNND) — A Texas deputy was killed early Sunday morning after being struck by a commercial truck 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 Interstate 45 North. Deputies arrived at the scene following multiple 911 calls about a multi-vehicle crash.
While investigating what officials described as a DWI-related incident and directing traffic, Deputy Erika Serrato, 24, was struck by a heavy-duty commercial truck pulling a trailer. The truck also collided with two marked patrol vehicles that had their emergency lights activated.
Deputy Serrato was transported to a local hospital, where she succumbed to her injuries. She had been with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office for six years and was assigned to District 2. Another deputy sustained minor injuries after being struck by debris and was treated and released from a local hospital.
Authorities reported that one driver involved in the initial crash, identified as 34-year-old Ashton Jammer, has been charged with Driving While Intoxicated and is set to be booked into the Montgomery County Jail.
The driver of the commercial truck was also taken to the hospital. The crash is under active investigation.
Sheriff Wesley Doolittle expressed condolences, stating, “Deputy Serrato made the ultimate sacrifice while serving and protecting our community.”
The sheriff's office also commended the assistance of multiple agencies, including the Texas Department of Public Safety and local police departments. Further information regarding Deputy Serrato's funeral arrangements is expected in the coming days.