WASHINGTON CO. COMMISSIONERS RECOGNIZE FIRST RESPONDERS AFTER TRAGEDY

  

Tuesday’s Washington County Commissioners meeting had a somber tone, following Friday’s crash at the Brenham DPS office that resulted in one person’s death and several other injuries. 

The meeting opened with a moment of silence, prior to words of gratitude from Commissioner Kirk Hanath for the public safety officials who responded to the 18-wheeler crash that day.  The court also gave special recognition to emergency dispatchers via a proclamation, as this week is National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

Hanath said last week is a reminder of how fragile life can be and to never take it for granted.  He also said while it is a difficult situation for everyone, it is even more so for those who experienced it firsthand.

DPS on Monday identified Bobby Huff as the victim who passed away as a result of the incident.  The Giddings Times & News reported that Huff was a lifelong resident of the Giddings area who was a business owner and mechanic. 

Huff was one of 14 people inside the DPS office at the time, and one of six people who were hospitalized.  As of Monday, two patients remain in critical but stable condition, while three others have been released.  Eight people were treated onsite. 

42-year-old Clenard Parker of Chappell Hill remains at the Washington County Jail on three charges of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Evading Arrest/Detention Causing Serious Bodily Injury and Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle.  His bond is set at $2 million.

Hanath commended the cooperation from all entities involved in securing the scene and tending to those in need.  He said their work got the critical care patients out of harms way in 17 minutes, something that required a “phenomenal” level of coordination in order to happen.  He said their work saved lives, adding, “They did everything that we would expect and more.”

As part of the proclamation honoring dispatchers, Washington County telecommunications officer BraShani Lewis read a brief statement illustrating their impact.

Hanath also announced that plans are in the works to hold a prayer vigil at the gazebo outside the Washington County Courthouse.  It is currently scheduled for next Thursday, April 25^th, at a time to be determined. 

Hanath's complete comments can be heard below.