MONTGOMERY COUNTY, Texas (TNND) — A Texas deputy was killed early Sunday after a commercial truck struck her on Interstate 45 while responding to another crash.
According to the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, the incident occurred at approximately 2:39 a.m. near the Woodlands Parkway exit on I-45 North.
Deputies were addressing a multi-vehicle accident related to suspected DWI when Deputy Erika Serrato was hit by a heavy-duty commercial truck towing a trailer. The truck also collided with two patrol vehicles, which had their emergency lights activated.
Deputy Serrato, 24, was transported to a local hospital where she later succumbed to her injuries. She had been with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office for six years, serving in District 2.
Another deputy sustained minor injuries from debris and was treated and released from a local hospital.
Authorities reported that Ashton Jammer, 34, the driver involved in the original crash, faces charges of Driving While Intoxicated and will be booked into the Montgomery County Jail.
The driver of the commercial truck was also taken to the hospital, and authorities confirmed that the incident remains under investigation.
In a statement, Sheriff Wesley Doolittle expressed profound sorrow over the loss, stating, “Deputy Serrato made the ultimate sacrifice while serving and protecting our community.”
The sheriff's office acknowledged the support of multiple agencies, including the Texas Department of Public Safety and Harris County Sheriff's Office, in responding to this incident.
Further details, including funeral arrangements for Deputy Serrato, are expected to be released soon.