HOUSTON – A 24-year-old Montgomery County sheriff’s deputy was killed in a crash early Sunday morning while she was on the scene of a separate crash on the North Freeway, authorities said.
Montgomery Co. deputy killed on I-45
What they’re saying:
Deputy Erika Serrato, a six-year veteran of the sheriff’s office, died from her injuries at a hospital following the 2:39 a.m. crash near the Woodlands Parkway exit. Serrato was assigned to District 2 of the sheriff’s office.
According to sheriff’s officials, Dept. Serrato and other deputies were investigating a separate crash and directing traffic when a heavy-duty commercial truck pulling a trailer struck Serrato and two marked patrol units. The patrol vehicles had their emergency lights activated at the time, investigators said.
A second deputy was injured by flying debris during the crash. He was treated for minor injuries at a hospital and has since been released.
The driver of the commercial vehicle was also taken to a hospital for treatment. That driver’s condition is unknown.
What they’re saying:
What’s next:
Authorities said additional details regarding the ongoing investigation and funeral arrangements will be released in the coming days.
Montgomery County Judge Mark Keough announced that Gov. Greg Abbott granted his request for all flags in the county to be lowered to half staff for Deputy Serrato’s honor.
Arrest in initial crash
Dig deeper:
Authorities identified one of the drivers involved in the initial collision as 34-year-old Ashton Jammer. Jammer has been charged with driving while intoxicated and will be booked into the Montgomery County Jail.
The Source: Information in this article is from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office and County Judge Mark Keough
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