Major Crimes detectives have arrested a 35-year-old Porter man in connection with a deadly hit-and-run along U.S. Highway 59, where a man was found dead on the roadside earlier this week in Splendora.
Authorities identified the victim as Gary Belvin. Early evidence indicates he was struck by a vehicle that left the scene without stopping. The investigation has focused on the 15000 block of U.S. Highway 59 in Splendora, where local police discovered Belvin's body on Thursday.
According to KPRC Click2Houston, the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office said Major Crimes detectives arrested Jeremy Michael Buckner, 35, on Saturday and booked him into the Montgomery County Jail. Buckner faces a charge of "collision involving injury or death," a second-degree felony under Texas law.
Investigators and crime-scene personnel spent days collecting evidence, working to identify the victim and chase down leads that ultimately pointed to Buckner, officials said.
Montgomery County Sheriff Wesley Doolittle publicly praised his team, saying he was "incredibly proud" of the Major Crimes Unit and hoping the arrest brings Belvin's family "a small amount of peace," according to KPRC Click2Houston. Doolittle called the investigation a reflection of detectives' "relentless commitment" and offered condolences to Belvin's loved ones. Authorities have not released any information about a possible motive or whether additional charges might follow.
Investigation details
Splendora officers initially asked the sheriff's office to assist after first responders and Montgomery County Hospital District personnel confirmed the man was dead at the scene. The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office said detectives processed the stretch of highway, followed up on leads and formally identified the victim as Gary Belvin before locating and arresting a suspect.
Investigators say the case is still active and are asking anyone with information to contact local law enforcement.
What the charge means
Under Texas law, leaving the scene of a collision that results in a death can be charged as a second-degree felony, carrying a potential sentence of two to 20 years in prison. The Texas Transportation Code sets out a driver's duty to stop and render aid after a crash and raises the offense to a felony when a person dies.
Depending on what investigators uncover, for example evidence of intoxication or other aggravating factors, prosecutors could seek additional charges.
The case remains open, and Buckner is still in custody while detectives and prosecutors review the evidence. Authorities have not released information about bail or a first court appearance, and local officials continue to urge anyone with tips to come forward.
