COMMUNITY REFLECTS ON ONE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF BRENHAM DPS OFFICE ATTACK

  

Tomorrow (Saturday) marks one year since the deadly attack on the Brenham DPS Office.

Tuesday’s Washington County Commissioners Court meeting opened with a moment of silence and a prayer led by local law enforcement and emergency responders.  Two lives were lost and multiple people were injured as the result of a stolen 18-wheeler ramming into the DPS facility on April 12, 2024. 

Commissioner Kirk Hanath said it is important to come together and unite as a community during tragedies like this.  County Judge John Durrenberger thanked the first responders who came to the aid of the public and encouraged reflection.

Fourteen people were inside the DPS building at the time, and six were hospitalized.  Two victims in the attack, Bobby Huff of Giddings and Cheryl Turner of Brenham, passed away as a result of their injuries. 

The aftermath saw Washington County residents rally together, holding prayer vigils and organizing fundraisers to support the families of those impacted.  DPS partnered with Blinn College to open a temporary driver’s license office at the Blinn College Student Center.

Brenham Mayor Atwood Kenjura issued a statement on Thursday in remembrance of last year’s events, saying, “As we mark one year since the tragic April 12^th attack at the DPS Office, we remember the lives impacted and honor the strength of our community.  This day is a reminder of the courage shown by our first responders and the resilience of those who serve.  We stand united in reflection, gratitude, and a continued commitment to safety.”

The suspect in the attack, 43-year-old Clenard Parker of Chappell Hill, was indicted on multiple charges, including Capital Murder.  He remains in the Washington County Jail. 

According to Washington County District Attorney Derek Estep, Parker’s defense team has been working on his case, but there are no major updates as for when his next court date will be.  Estep said a motion was filed to perform a psychiatric evaluation, which “puts things on hold for a little while.”