‘A SENSELESS TRAGEDY’; LOCAL OFFICIALS SPEAK ON FATAL CRASH AT BRENHAM DPS OFFICE
Local officials are calling this (Friday) morning’s crash into the Brenham DPS office by a stolen 18-wheeler an “act of violence” and “a senseless tragedy.”
speaks to reporters at a press conference after an
18-wheeler crashed into Brenham's DPS office
Friday morning. Several people were hospitalized,
and one was killed. Also addressing the media was
State Senator Lois Kolkhorst (far left).
State Senator Lois Kolkhorst and Brenham Mayor Atwood Kenjura were among those who spoke this (Friday) afternoon at a press conference held across the highway from the scene of the crash, which led to one person’s death and several other injuries.
Kolkhorst said this is a reminder of the danger that law enforcement and public safety officials continually face.
Kolkhorst also said this act will not go unpunished.
Kenjura thanked first responders for their speedy response, saying the losses could have been much more severe were it not for them.
42-year-old Clenard Parker of Chappell Hill is in custody at the Washington County Jail and will face several felony charges.
The investigation into the incident is being led by the Texas Rangers.
Full statement from State Senator Lois Kolkhorst:
“Today, a horrific tragedy occurred in my hometown of Brenham where an individual driving a stolen 18-wheeler crashed through the local Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. Three individuals were life-flighted with critical injuries. Three other patrons were transported to local hospitals in stable condition. I have been in contact with local officials as well as the Director of DPS and the Lt. Governor’s office. All resources are being deployed to assist our local first responders. DPS reports that no staff suffered serious injury; one staffer had been trapped for a period of time inside the office.
According to law enforcement, this appears to be an intentional, criminal act and the Texas Rangers will be leading the investigation. This deliberate, heinous act is a reminder of the dangerous work done by our law enforcement and licensing agencies that work to provide public safety and services. Please join me in praying for the innocent victims and their families at this time.”
Full statement from Brenham Mayor Atwood Kenjura:
“I want to again express my sincere gratitude to the law enforcement officers who took swift action to apprehend the suspect. Without their efforts, I’m certain even more harm would have been done. I couldn’t be more proud of this community for all that was done today. I ask that you continue to keep the families in your thoughts and prayers as they process the loss of life and the trauma endured by those in the building today.”