Texas deputy killed by truck at drunk-driving crash scene

A sheriff’s deputy in Texas was killed when a commercial truck struck her while she was directing traffic at the scene of a suspected drunk-driving crash north of Houston, according to officials.

The crash happened at about 2:39 a.m. Sunday on Interstate 45 North near the Woodlands Parkway exit in Montgomery County, according to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies had responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a multi-vehicle crash and were helping with the investigation, including directing traffic around the scene. The sheriff’s office said the initial crash involved a driver suspected of driving while intoxicated.

While deputies were working the scene, a heavy-duty commercial truck pulling a trailer struck Deputy Erika Serrato, who was outside her vehicle directing traffic. The truck also hit two marked patrol vehicles that had their emergency lights activated.

Serrato, 24, was taken to a local hospital, where she died from her injuries. She was assigned to District 2 and had worked for the sheriff’s office for six years.

Another deputy was injured after being struck by debris. He suffered minor injuries, was treated at a hospital and released.

One of the drivers involved in the initial crash, identified as 34-year-old Ashton Jammer, has been charged with driving while intoxicated, the sheriff’s office said.

The driver of the commercial vehicle that struck Serrato was also taken to a hospital. Officials did not immediately release that driver’s condition or say whether charges were being considered.

The crash remains under investigation. Funeral arrangements and additional information are expected to be released in the coming days.