Wrong-Way Driver Strikes Deputy’s Vehicle in Harris County, Found with Open Victoria and Angry Orchard Beers, Charged with Intoxication Assault

HOUSTON, TX, August 11, 2023 – A serious collision involving wrong-way driver Jose Valdez and on-duty Deputy A Howard occurred in the 9400 block of E Sam Houston Parkway N, Houston, Texas. The incident prompted an investigation into the intoxication aspect of the crash, conducted by the investigator.

According to the report, Valdez was traveling northbound in the southbound lanes of E Sam Houston Parkway N when his vehicle struck Deputy Howard’s patrol vehicle head-on. The primary accident investigator stated that Valdez had been transported to Lyndon B Johnson Hospital.

Upon arrival at the hospital, the investigator met with Valdez, who was identified by his Texas Driver’s License. Valdez admitted to having consumed an unknown amount of alcoholic beverages before the crash. While speaking to Valdez, the investigator noted a strong odor of alcohol on his breath and observed red bloodshot eyes.

Valdez’s condition prevented the investigator from administering the Standardized Field Sobriety Test. However, Valdez agreed to provide a specimen of his blood, which was withdrawn by a registered nurse. Inside Valdez’s vehicle, an open 12-ounce Victoria beer and an open 12-ounce Angry Orchard beer were found.

Deputy Howard who decided to get in front of Valdez so no one else was hit, was transported to a local hospital, where he was diagnosed with a rib fracture and two sprained wrists.

The investigator spoke to an Assistant District Attorney, and Intoxication Assault charges were accepted against Valdez.