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Police said the pickup truck driver showed signs of intoxication after the crash and was being evaluated for a DWI.
HOUSTON — We’re learning more about a fiery wreck early Saturday morning in the Midtown area that led to the deaths of two men who were in Houston for a fraternity event.
It happened a little after 2 a.m., when Precinct 7 deputy constables noticed the driver of a Ford F-150 hit two separate vehicles and kept on going. Deputies tried to stop the driver, later identified as 21-year-old Rene Hernandez.
Hernandez reportedly didn’t stop, and a brief chase followed. Investigators said it lasted about 15 seconds, during which Hernandez ran multiple red lights.
At the intersection of Elgin and Smith, Hernandez reportedly ran a red light and slammed into a Lexus. The impact pushed the Lexus into a building, where it caught fire.
Two men in the Lexus died at the scene. Those victims were identified as 22-year-olds Jayden Flemming and Ronnie Burns II. They were in town for the annual Texas Greek Picnic, according to investigators. Both recently graduated from Florida A&M University.
Hernandez was injured in the wreck and taken to the hospital. There was also a woman in the truck with him. She suffered injuries that weren’t considered life-threatening.
As of Monday morning, Hernandez was still in the hospital. Once he’s released, he’ll be taken to the Harris County Jail. He’s facing two counts of murder since he was allegedly already committing a felony. Investigators said he was slurring his speech and smelled of alcohol after the wreck.
Investigators said there is bodycam, but it’s not been released yet because it’s part of the investigation.
According to Harris County Precinct 7, the chase was within protocol, and the deputy constable followed procedure after seeing the truck hit two other vehicles. The deputy involved in the chase is on administrative leave, but not because of any violation. It’s more for emotional well-being.