A tragic event unfolded in northwest Harris County when a 7-year-old girl was killed in a car crash involving a suspected drunk driver. The incident, which took place on Sunday, led to the arrest of 41-year-old Joel Gonzalez Chacin, according to details provided by the Harris County Pct. 4 Constable’s Office. Click2Houston reports that Chacin displayed signs of intoxication at the scene of the accident in the 10900 block of Bammel North Houston Road.
The crash occurred around 2:45 a.m. at the intersection of Bammel North Houston Road and the Sam Houston Parkway. While Chacin survived with no significant injuries, the collision injured the driver of the other vehicle, and, gravely led to the death of her young passenger, after being transported to a hospital. Despite the gravity of the situation, records show that Gonzalez Chacin chose to take photos of the crash "instead of helping," as noted by a magistrate in statements obtained from ABC13.
Following the crash, Chacin was arrested and charged with intoxication and manslaughter. His bond was set at $150,000, reflecting the severity of the circumstances. "Given the seriousness of this offense, a high bond is necessary," the magistrate was quoted in the ABC13 article.
Harris County Pct. 4 Constable Mark Herman offered words of condolence, "Please keep the family and loved ones of the juvenile victim in your prayers this holiday season," a sentiment he shared with Click2Houston. The case against Joel Gonzalez Chacin will proceed as the legal system addresses the trauma and tragic result of the early morning crash.
