A 20-year-old man has been arrested and charged with intoxication manslaughter after an early-morning crash Tuesday that left a man dead on Westheimer Parkway in Katy, according to Fort Bend County deputies. Authorities identified the suspect as Dejon Fortune and the victim as 53-year-old Sung Bae. Investigators say the collision happened around 2:20 a.m. in the westbound lanes near Cinco Ranch Boulevard.
In a statement to ABC13, Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan wrote, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and loved ones of Mr. Bae as they navigate this heartbreaking loss." He added, "Impaired driving continues to claim innocent lives in our community" and urged people to make responsible choices.
Why This Matters
According to TxDOT, drunk and impaired driving remain a leading factor in roadway deaths across Texas, and the agency runs statewide campaigns urging Texans to plan sober rides. That broader picture is a big part of why local officials keep publicly stressing impairment when deadly crashes like this one happen.
Crash Details and Arrest
Investigators told ABC13 that Fortune struck Bae in the westbound lanes of Westheimer Parkway and was later booked into the Fort Bend County Jail on an intoxication manslaughter charge. A search of online records by the station indicates this is Fortune's first charge in Fort Bend County. Deputies say the investigation is still active.
What the Charge Means
Intoxication manslaughter is laid out in Texas Penal Code §49.08 and is generally a second-degree felony, carrying a potential sentence of two to 20 years in prison. Lawmakers expanded the circumstances for enhanced penalties in 2025, and the bill text is available on the Texas Legislature website.
Investigation and Next Steps
The Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office is leading the investigation and is asking anyone with information to reach out to the department through its online contact and tip options, listed on the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office website. Officials have not released additional court or bond details as of this report. This story will be updated as booking logs, court documents or official releases provide new information.
