Texas DPS Archives - Uvalde Hesperian

Driver perishes in early Sunday morning accident on Highway 83 north of Carrizo Springs

admin — Mon, 15 Jun 2026 16:54:48 +0000

(Editor’s Note This is a press release from Texas DPS. There are no photos from the accident scene, but the accident details are disturbing.)

06-15-26

Press Release from Texas Department of Public Safety

DEL RIO – THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY (DPS) is investigating a one-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on June 14, 2026, at approximately 3:16 a.m., on US 83 approximately 4-miles north of Carrizo Springs, Texas, in Dimmit County.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2024 gray Hyundai Sonata was traveling southbound on US 83 and Midway Park Road (County Road 101). The Hyundai failed to drive in a single lane and crossed into the northbound lane of travel. The driver left the traveled roadway, veered into a bar ditch, and struck a concrete embankment.

The Hyundai rolled over, ejecting the driver who was lying in the northbound lane and was run over by a truck tractor, avoiding the crash vehicle in the southbound lane. The driver, Brandon Lee Frausto, 29, from Carrizo Springs, was pronounced deceased on scene as a result of this crash.

The passenger was transported to Dimmit Regional Hospital. DPS Troopers continue to investigate this fatal crash.

The post Driver perishes in early Sunday morning accident on Highway 83 north of Carrizo Springs appeared first on Uvalde Hesperian.

Motorcycle collision with truck claims life of rider

admin — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 19:28:13 +0000

Press release from Texas DPS-Del Rio

04-25-26

Picture credit: Google Maps

DEL RIO – THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY (DPS) is investigating a two- vehicle fatal crash that occurred on April 22, 2026, approximately 9:20 p.m. at the intersection of FM 1435 (Evans Street) and Juarez Street in the city limits of Uvalde.

Preliminary investigation revealed a 1993 Mercury XR7 passenger car was traveling east on Juarez Street and came to a stop at the intersection of Juarez and Evans Street. The Mercury proceeded to travel eastbound and Failed to Yield the Right of Way at Stop Sign.

The 2000 Harley-Davidson motorcycle traveling south on FM 1435 (Evans Street) collided with the Mercury at the intersection. The rider of the motorcycle was ejected. Joaquin Ray Terrazas, 20, from Uvalde, TX was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver of Mercury passenger car was transported to the Uvalde Memorial Hospital. But was later released, DPS Troopers are investigating this fatal crash.

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Uvalde CISD to file amicus brief recommending DPS release Robb School data

admin — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 17:19:45 +0000

by Michael Robinson | Uvalde Hesperian

Attorney Dave Campell with Thompon and Horton LLP Picture credit: https://www.thompsonhorton.com/people/

October 22, 2025

10-22-25 Following the Uvalde CISD Board of Trustee’s return from executive session at Monday night’s meeting, Attorney Dave Campbell of Thompson and Horton representing the district referenced a lawsuit filed by a group of media entities against Texas seeking the release of records it is seeking pertaining to Robb Elementary School during the May 24th tragedy.

Campbell stated the district is planning on filing an Amicus Brief to the presiding court.

According to Campbell, Texas DPS has 2 terabytes of data it has not released to the media or to the public.

In the Amicus brief. the district recommends to the court that DPS release the records, of which include a hallway video. Additionally, the district urges the video taken by DPS to be released. In a separate letter the district asks the video to be released to Uvalde CISD and once obtained, the district can decide if the video should be released to the public.

Uvalde CISD’s Attorney Campbell also spoke on the district’s plan to file a motion with the Western District Court to clarify the language of the 1982 consent decree.

“The board wants to honor the consent decree; however, Texas Law has changed,”

According to Campbell, the Mireles lawsuit against the district was not about election term lengths but about board of trustees representing the community. At that time, all board of Trustee positions were elected as at-large positions, and it was argued the board members did not adequately reflect the citizens.

Since the decree, the board now elects 3 at-large board members and four board members to represent specific areas within the district.

Dave Campbell stated the firm will file a motion within 2 weeks asking the Western District Court asking it to clean up the language in the consent decree clarifying the language. specifically. We want the judge to recognize the district holds elections in May not April and also the terms are now 4-year terms not 3-years terms.

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Vehicle crash leave one dead in crash 11 miles east of Batesville

admin — Sun, 31 Aug 2025 21:56:15 +0000

change-format change-format

Subject: Fatal Crash US 57 Batesville

From	Cordova, Rene
To	Cordova, Rene
Date	Sat 20:20

Press Releases from Texas DPS

DEL RIO – THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY (DPS) is investigating a one-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on August 30, 2025, at approximately 10:50 a.m. on US 57 and at mile marker 444, 11 miles east of Batesville in Zavala County. Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2026 blue Chevrolet Equinox sport utility was traveling eastbound. The driver of the 2026 blue Chevrolet Equinox fell asleep approaching a curve, then drove off the roadway overcorrected and overturned several times. The rear passengers were ejected from the vehicle then came to rest in the westbound lane. The rear passenger of the blue Chevrolet Equinox, David Elizondo, 25, from Eagle Pass, Texas, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver and front passenger were taken to Uvalde Hospital. One passenger was flown to Brook Army Medical Center from the scene. DPS Troopers continue to investigate this fatal crash.

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Texas DPS Reports fatal car crashes in Dimmit and Zavala Counties

admin — Sat, 30 Aug 2025 17:25:05 +0000

8-29-25

DEL RIO – THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY (DPS) is investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on August 28, 2025, at approximately 5:57 a.m. on US 277 and FM 191 at mile marker 438, 18 miles west of Carrizo Springs in Dimmit County. Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2017 gray Kia Sorrento was traveling eastbound. A 2023 white Dodge Ram pickup truck was traveling westbound on US 277 and FM 191. The driver of the 2017 gray Kia was approaching a curve, then drove on the wrong side of the roadway by crossing over the center strip. The driver of the Kia struck the white Dodge in the westbound lane. The driver of the gray Kia, Oscar Rodriguez III, 25, from Eagle Pass, Texas, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Dodge was not injured. DPS Troopers continue to investigate this fatal crash

8-29-25

DEL RIO – THE TEXAS DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY (DPS) is investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on August 28, 2025, at approximately 2:41 p.m. on US 57 and at mile marker 424, 6 miles west of La Pryor in Zavala County. Preliminary investigation revealed that a 2024 black Hyundai Sonata was traveling westbound. A 2024 gray Ford F-150 pickup truck was traveling eastbound on US 57. The 2024 black Hyundai Sonata driver was approaching a curve, then drove on the wrong side of the roadway by crossing over the yellowcenter line. The driver of the Hyundai struck the gray Ford F-150 pickup in the eastbound lane. The driver of the black Hyundai, Omar Tarid, 25, from Richmond, Texas, was pronounced deceased at University Hospital in San Antonio. DPS Troopers continue to investigate this fatal crash.

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DPS Offers Reminders for a Safer School Year

admin — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 16:23:04 +0000

08-08-25

Top Photo: File Photo

Press Release from Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)

AUSTIN – As students begin heading back to school, the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reminds all Texans to exercise heightened caution and adhere to safety measures implemented to protect students, staff and fellow drivers this school year. This includes tips on how to safely drop off and pick up your child from school, drive cautiously through school zones and talk to your family and loved ones about staying safe this school year and beyond.

“As the new school year begins, we’re asking every driver to slow down, stay alert and be patient— especially in school zones and car lines for pickup,” said Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee. “Children can be unpredictable and it’s our responsibility to keep them safe. A moment of impatience or distraction behind the wheel can have life-changing consequences. Let’s all do our part to make sure students arrive safely every day.”

Driving Tips:

Give students extra room and don’t assume they are paying attention to your vehicle. Students are often distracted by mobile devices, electronic devices or by other students, and they may not be paying attention.
Don’t block crosswalks when stopped at a red light or stop sign.
Follow the directions of school crossing guards.
Watch for children on bicycles traveling to and from schools.
Reduce your speed when you spot a school bus and know children may unexpectedly step into the road without checking for traffic.
Be careful around railroad crossings. School buses are legally required to stop at them.
Know the laws regarding school buses. According to Texas law, if a bus has alternating flashing red signals visible from the front or rear, drivers MUST stop before reaching the bus. Drivers can only proceed if the flashing lights are no longer activated, the driver signals you to proceed or the bus has resumed driving. Approaching drivers do NOT have to stop for a school bus that is operating a visual signal if the road is separated by a physical barrier or an intervening space. If a highway is only divided by a left-turn lane, it is not considered divided, and drivers must stop for school buses.
Drivers who illegally pass a school bus face fines up to $1,250 for the first offense. For people convicted of the offense more than once, the law allows for the person’s driver license to be suspended for up to six months. Criminal charges are possible if a driver causes someone serious bodily injury.
Always obey speed limits and traffic laws in school zones.
Remember, texting while driving is illegal in Texas.

In addition to driver safety tips around school zones and near school buses, it is imperative to have regular conversations with your children about school safety and situational awareness during an emergency or severe weather event. DPS reminds Texas families of critical safety tips to ensure parents, guardians and children are prepared to navigate any potential emergencies or natural disasters that may arise this school year.

Safety tips:

Make sure your school has up-to-date emergency contact information, including phone numbers for parents, guardians and alternate contacts.
Keep a current, up-to-date picture of your child throughout the school year on your mobile device that shows identifying information. In the event of an emergency, law enforcement can quickly distribute the photograph of your child.
Talk to your child about what to do in case of emergencies, such as fire, active shooter or tornado drills, as well as other lockdown drills.
Remind your child to never talk to strangers or accept rides from anyone not previously approved by you.
Familiarize yourself and your child with their school’s safety policies and procedures.
Ensure your child knows which adults at school (teachers, counselors, etc.) they can go to if they need help.
Continue to cultivate conversations throughout the school year on practicing smart safety at school.

DPS also reminds students, parents, teachers and school administrators about some other valuable safety resources:

The iWatchTexas program is a critical resource for reporting suspicious activity in schools and communities to help prevent dangerous attacks. Everyone is urged to download the free iOS or Android iWatchTexas mobile app before the start of the school year. Tips can be reported via the website, the mobile app or by calling 844-643-2251. All reports are confidential. For information on how to use iWatchTexas, you can view this how-to video.

Remember, iWatchTexas is not for emergencies. If there is an emergency on a school campus or in a community, call 911. Also, the program can be used to report suspicious activity in areas in addition to schools.

The Texas School Safety Center is another useful tool for school security. It’s part of Texas State University and offers valuable resources on school safety for parents and members of the school community. It’s designed to be a central location for research, training and technical information for all school districts, charter schools and community colleges in the state. The Texas School Safety Center has staff experienced in school safety and can provide technical assistance or training, conduct program evaluations or offer resources to schools. Classes are also available online for the community.
The Active Shooter Alert System is not school-specific but could be used in the event of a shooting at or near a school. The alert system is designed to notify people near an active shooter situation through cell phones, local broadcast media and Texas Department of Transportation Dynamic Message Signs (DMS). These alerts are used to encourage people to avoid the area or shelter-in-place, when a situation arises.

DPS will issue an Active Shooter Alert when an agency submits a request that meets the requirements. Those include an active shooter in the agency’s jurisdiction, determining that the alert would assist people near the active shooter’s location, verification of the active shooter situation through a preliminary investigation by the requesting agency and that the shooter’s last known location is identifiable.

Trained in media relations and public speaking, DPS Safety Education Service Lieutenants and Sergeants are charged with educating the public and serving as Public Information Officers to the media regarding public safety in Texas. Additionally, these officers regularly offer presentations to schools on drug use prevention, traffic safety, underage drinking, situational awareness and other education and awareness programs.

To request a DPS Safety Education Service Lieutenant or Sergeant to speak at your school, please visit the DPS website here.

By utilizing all available resources, Texans can work together to keep our schools safe.

The post DPS Offers Reminders for a Safer School Year appeared first on Uvalde Hesperian.

DPS Advises Public to Download iWatchTexas Amid Potential Homeland Security Threats

admin — Sat, 28 Jun 2025 16:05:59 +0000

Press release submitted by the Texas Department of Public Safety

06-26-25

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is urging Texans to download the iWatchTexas mobile app to protect the public from potential homeland security threats, considering recent international events. Using iWatchTexas, everyone can take an active role in protecting Texas communities from possible terror attacks.

“As Texas’ Homeland Security Director, let me assure you that our local, state and federal law enforcement partners are working around the clock to keep our communities safe from any potential terror attacks—but we need the public’s help,” said DPS Colonel Freeman F. Martin. “Through iWatchTexas reports, law enforcement can quickly detect and disrupt these types of threats before they materialize. This is not about creating fear—it’s about staying informed, alert and ready to speak up when something doesn’t seem right.”

iWatchTexas is a critical tool that allows Texans to report suspicious activity that may relate to criminal, terrorist or school safety-related threats. Oftentimes, preparations for crimes, terrorist attacks and threats to school safety may be seen by someone but not reported. When in doubt, DPS encourages everyone to speak up.

Here are some examples of behaviors and activities you should report:

Comments made regarding killing or harming someone.
Strangers asking questions about building security features and procedures.
A social media post about a possible attack or a desire to commit an act of violence.
A social media account encouraging and posting about acts of vandalism, sabotage or arson.
Actively showing support for designated foreign terrorist organizations such as Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Hezbollah (Hizballah) and Ansarallah (Houthis).
People requesting sensitive information, such as blueprints, security plans or VIP travel schedules, without a need to know.
Purchasing supplies that could be used to make bombs or weapons or purchasing uniforms without having the proper credentials.
Taking photographs or videos of security features, such as cameras or checkpoints.
Attempted or actual cyber attacks

In March, DPS Launched a New iWatchTexas Feature to protect the public from coercion and harassment by foreign adversaries. The new feature allows individuals to indicate that their concern is related to foreign influence when submitting a report. Foreign influence threats may include assassination, assault, physical surveillance, harassment, abduction, familial intimidation, digital threats, passport revocation, consular services denial, unlawful detention and deportation, forced rendition and repatriation and INTERPOL abuses. All iWatchTexas reports indicating possible foreign influence will automatically be routed to DPS for further vetting.

About iWatchTexas

Using the iWatchTexas tool, the public can report suspicious activities or behaviors in their schools and communities that may indicate criminal, terroristic or school safety-related threats. These can be reported via the mobile app, online at www.iwatchtx.org or by calling 1-844-643-2251. A report usually takes less than five minutes, and once submitted, each report is reviewed by law enforcement analysts. All reports are confidential (providing contact information, which is optional, will allow for follow-up questions).

The iWatchTexas app is free and available for iPhone and Android. Texans are urged to download the app immediately.

Note: The iWatchTexas program is not designed to report emergencies. If a situation requires an emergency response, call 911.

Remember, the department is continuously monitoring events and their impact on public safety and remains in constant communication with local, state and federal partners—including the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)—to address potential and emerging threats. DPS will adjust operations as needed to protect the people and property of Texas.

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DPS Increases Enforcement for Fourth of July Holiday

admin — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 18:01:56 +0000

Press Release from the Texas Department of Public Service

Image by Sabine from Pixabay

06-27-25

AUSTIN – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is stepping up enforcement efforts for the Fourth of July holiday to keep everyone safe on the roads, including Operation Crash Awareness Reduction Effort (CARE), which runs July 3-6.

Operation CARE is a specialized campaign in which Texas Highway Patrol Troopers patrol for drivers who are speeding, intoxicated, not complying with Texas’ Move Over, Slow Down law or violating other laws.

“The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate our freedoms with family and friends, but safety must come first,” said Texas Highway Patrol Chief Bryan Rippee, “Whether you’re on the road, on the water or handling fireworks, make smart choices that protect you and those around you. Let’s work together to ensure everyone has a safe and happy Independence Day.”

During last year’s Fourth of July enforcement campaign, Troopers issued more than 59,521 citations and warnings, including 5,178 for speeding; 1,581 for no insurance; and more than 335 for individuals without seat belts or child seat restraints. DPS also arrested 212 people on DWI charges and 250 people for other felony charges.

DPS encourages the public to follow these safety tips during Fourth of July weekend and beyond:

Driver Safety:

Don’t drink and drive. Make alternate plans if you are consuming alcohol.
Move Over or Slow Down for police, fire, EMS, Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) vehicles and tow trucks stopped on the side of the road with emergency lights activated. Show the same courtesy to fellow drivers who are stopped on the side of the road. So far in 2024, there have been more than 7,044 Move Over, Slow Down violations.
Buckle up everyone in the vehicle — it’s the law.
Slow down, especially in bad weather, heavy traffic, unfamiliar areas or construction zones.
Eliminate distractions while driving, including the use of mobile devices. Texas law prohibits the use of portable wireless devices to read, write or send an electronic message unless the vehicle is stopped. If you’re using a navigation device or app, have a passenger operate it so you can keep your eyes on the road.
Drive defensively, as holiday travel can present additional challenges.
On multi-lane roads, use the left lane for passing only. Not only is it courteous driving and avoids impeding traffic, Texas law requires slower traffic to keep to the right and to use the left lane for passing only (when posted).
Don’t cut in front of large trucks and try not to brake quickly in front of them. They can’t maneuver as easily as passenger vehicles and pickup trucks.
If you can Steer It, Clear It: If you are involved in a non-injury crash and your vehicle can be moved, clear the traffic lanes to minimize traffic impact. Leaving vehicles in a traffic lane increases traffic congestion and leaves those involved with an increased risk of harm or a secondary wreck. On some highways, if you don’t move your vehicle when it’s safe to do so, it’s against the law.
Keep the Texas Roadside Assistance number stored in your phone. Dial 1-800-525-5555 for any type of assistance. The number can also be found on the back of a Texas Driver License.
Check your vehicle to make sure it is properly maintained and always ensure your cargo is secure.
Report road hazards or anything suspicious to the nearest law enforcement agency.
Monitor weather and road conditions wherever you are traveling. For road conditions and closures in Texas, visit Drive Texas.

Fireworks Safety:

Use fireworks outdoors in a clear area away from buildings and flammable materials.
Keep a bucket of water or a hose nearby in case of an emergency.
Never allow young children to handle fireworks; supervise older children closely.
Light one firework at a time and never relight a “dud” firework.
Dispose of used fireworks by soaking them in water before discarding them.

DPS would also like to remind Texans about the iWatchTexas program, a critical resource for reporting suspicious activity within the community to help prevent dangerous attacks. It’s especially important to be vigilant as people gather for parades, festivals and other community events. Tips can be reported via the website, the free iWatch iOS or Android mobile app or by calling 844-643-2251. All reports are confidential. For information on how to use iWatchTexas, you can view this how-to video.

Remember, iWatchTexas is not for emergencies. If there is an emergency, call 911 immediately.

The post DPS Increases Enforcement for Fourth of July Holiday appeared first on Uvalde Hesperian.

VIDEO: DPS Captures Honduran Man Wanted for Attempted Murder During Traffic Stop

admin — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 02:18:15 +0000

Press release from Texas DPS Del Rio

06-24-25

DEL RIO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) captured a criminal illegal immigrant wanted out of Colorado for various violent offenses—including attempted murder—during an Operation Lone Star traffic stop in Maverick Co.

On Thursday, June 19, 2025, just after 9:30 p.m., a DPS Trooper stopped a white Toyota RAV4 SUV on US-57 in Eagle Pass for a traffic violation. During the stop, the Trooper learned that the driver was smuggling an illegal immigrant. With assistance from Border Patrol, the illegal immigrant was identified as Juan Carlos Rivera Garcia, 42, of Honduras.

Through further investigation, the Trooper determined that Rivera Garcia was wanted out of Arapahoe Co., Colo., for attempted murder, domestic assault causing serious bodily injury with a deadly weapon and child abuse knowingly or recklessly causing bodily injury. Rivera Garcia also had numerous apprehensions in Denver, Colo., for illegal entry between 2011 and 2018. He had been removed from the country in 2018.

Rivera Garcia was arrested and booked into the Maverick Co. Jail. The driver, Henry Salazar, 34, of Austin, Texas, was arrested and charged with smuggling of persons and booked into the Val Verde Processing Center.

Video from this incident is available here. https://youtu.be/MjRUHhXivlY

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Motorcycle accident with truck on Highway 83 results in one fatality

admin — Mon, 02 Jun 2025 20:34:12 +0000

Press Release from the Texas Department of Public Safety Del Rio

06-02-25

(Top Picture was changed to a generic emergency scene illustration. No pictures from the actual accident were sent by Texas DPS with this report.

DEL RIO – The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash that occurred on May 25, 2025, at approximately 10:34 pm on US 83 and Ranch Road 1050 in Concan in Uvalde County.

The crash occurred at the intersection of US 83 and Ranch Road 1050. A preliminary investigation revealed that a 2021 black Chevrolet pickup truck was at US 83 and Ranch Road 1050 intersection, stopped at a stop sign facing westbound on Ranch Road 1050. A 2000 blue Harley Davidson motorcycle was traveling north on US 83.

The Chevrolet proceeded westbound into the intersection of US 83 from Ranch Road 1050 and failed to yield the right of way. The Harley Davidson collided with the Chevrolet pickup, striking the front left quarter panel. Due to injuries sustained from the pickup truck, the driver of the Harley Davidson, identified as Jacob Chambers, 31, of Floresville TX, was pronounced deceased on scene. No other injuries were reported due to this crash. DPS Troopers continue to investigate this fatal crash.

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Texas DPS Archives - Uvalde Hesperian

Driver perishes in early Sunday morning accident on Highway 83 north of Carrizo Springs

Motorcycle collision with truck claims life of rider

FM 1435 (Evans Street) and Juarez Street in the city limits of Uvalde.

Uvalde CISD to file amicus brief recommending DPS release Robb School data

Uvalde CISD to submit motion to the Western District Court requesting 1982 Consent Decree language be cleaned-up.

Vehicle crash leave one dead in crash 11 miles east of Batesville

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