Texas DPS investigate crash that killed deputy constable, driver suspected of DUI

WESLACO, Texas ( ValleyCentral ) — The Texas Department of Public Safety confirmed the driver in the fatal crash that claimed the life of Cameron County Precinct 1 Deputy Constable Ruben Garcia is in police custody and will be facing charges once he is released from the hospital.

A news release from Sergeant Maria Hernandez with Texas DPS said around 6:45 p.m., the two-vehicle fatal crash occurred Monday on State Highway 48 near Marine Way Road in Brownsville.

The department’s investigation showed a Cameron County Precinct 1 patrol unit was parked on State Highway 48 occupied by Constable Garcia.

Garcia was in the patrol unit about to leave after assisting DPS with another crash scene at the location, according to the news release.

At that moment a white Chevrolet Silverado, occupied only by the driver, rear-ended the patrol unit.

Garcia sustained injuries and was transported to a hospital in Brownsville, where he died from his injuries.

DPS added that the driver of the Chevrolet Silverado admitted to being distracted while looking at his phone and driving. In addition, the driver was suspected of driving under the influence, and Magistrate Leonardo Rincones signed a search warrant for a blood draw.

Update

Just after 3 p.m. Tuesday, DPS stated that the driver of the Chevrolet Silverado was transported to Valley Baptist Hospital in Brownsville with non-life-threatening injuries, where he remains under custodial arrest.

He will be charged with Intoxication Manslaughter, Causing Death to a Police Officer after he is released from the hospital, according to DPS.

The identity of the driver has not yet been released.

DPS Troopers continue to investigate this fatality.

Community response

Cameron County Constable Precinct 5, posted about Deputy Constable Ruben Garcia’s death last night.

The post reads, “My thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and colleagues of the fallen Cameron County PCT 1 Deputy Constable. May they find strength during this incredibly difficult time. We are forever grateful for the sacrifice made in the line of duty to keep our community safe.

Port Isabel Police Department also released a post stating, “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Port Isabel Police Department Officer, Cameron County Constable Precinct 1 Deputy Ruben Garcia. Our thoughts and prayers are with his entire family, friends, and colleagues. You will be deeply missed, RIP Deputy Garcia.”

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