Texas DPS truck crash in Brenham: 1 dead, 13 injured after suspect stole 18-wheeler
BRENHAM, Texas - One person has died and multiple people were injured when an 18-wheeler crashed into the Texas Department of Public Safety office in Brenham, officials say.
According to Texas DPS, 42-year-old Clenard Parker allegedly crashed an 18-wheeler on Friday morning while being pursued by a Washington County sheriff's deputy and other law enforcement agencies. The chase began on State Highway 36 near 290.
Parker reportedly stole the 18-wheeler but it has not been reported where it was taken from. He has been arrested and taken into custody by the Washington County Sheriff's Department.
SUGGESTED: Dallas school shooting: Student shot in leg, suspect in custody at Wilmer-Hutchins High School
A Texas DPS Sergeant reports Parker arrived at the Texas DPS office in Brenham on Thursday and was denied his Commercial Driver's License. The staff told Parker he was not eligible to renew his license.
Fourteen people were injured in the crash, officials say. Two people were flown to a hospital in Bryan, one person was life-flighted to Memorial Hermann in Houston, three people were taken to a hospital in Brenham, and eight people were treated and released on the scene.
One person unfortunately died from their injuries, authorities say.
Clenard Parker (Courtesy of Washington County Sheriff's Office)
Parker was charged with Unauthorized use of a Vehicle and Evading Arrest causing Serious Bodily Injury. He has previous criminal charges going back to 1999 including criminal trespass, arson, and prohibited weapons.
The DPS office will be shut down for the time being. Customers who have appointments and need a driver's license are advised to go to the Texas DPS website for more information.
Texas DPS confirms that the Texas Rangers are investigating.
Governor Greg Abbott gave this statement on his X profile:
"Cecilia and I are saddened to hear of the tragic incident at the @TxDPS office in Brenham. Join us in praying for the Texan who passed, those injured, and their loved ones. I thank first responders for their swift response. Texas will bring this heinous criminal to justice."
The public is asked to stay clear of the area while investigators and medical personnel are at the scene.
Brenham is located in Washington County, northwest of Houston.
This is a breaking news story. FOX 26 has a crew heading to the scene. Check back for updates.