Passenger dies after suspected DWI crash off I-45 in SE Houston

HOUSTON, TX — One person died Tuesday night after a single-vehicle crash along Interstate 45 in southeast Houston that hurt two others, including a DWI suspect, according to a Houston Police Department press release.

The fatal accident unfolded in the 9100 block of the freeway’s (Gulf Freeway) service road, northeast of William P. Hobby Airport. It was first reported at about 11:40 p.m.

An investigation by the HPD’s Vehicular Crimes Division indicates the suspect, 23-year-old Fernando Jose Chacon Perez, was driving a silver Mazda M3S southbound. At one point, he entered the ramp onto the freeway but then drove off the ramp to travel back onto the service road. Authorities indicated that the abrupt move caused the Mazda to hit multiple stationary objects, including a tree, a utility pole, and then a utility box.

The Mazda’s rear seat passenger, whose identity has not been made public, was pronounced deceased at the scene by responding Houston Fire Department paramedics.

The vehicle’s front-seat passenger, 18, was taken to a hospital in stable condition, along with Chacon Perez, who was transported with minor injuries.

Authorities said Chacon Perez was charged with intoxication manslaughter and intoxication assault after it was determined that he was impaired. He was booked into Harris County Jail.

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