Houston Police Department

May 14, 2005 -- Houston police are investigating the death of a man in the 15400 block of the Katy Freeway about 1 a. m. today (May 14).

The victim is identified as Kevin Hafstien, 34, of 20019 Fort Bowie Court. He was transported to Memorial City General Hospital where he was pronounced dead. The cause of death is pending an autopsy by the Harris County Medical Examiner's office.

HPD Homicide Division Officers B. Harris and E. Gonzalez reported:

A Harris County Precinct 5 Deputy Constable traveling eastbound in the 15800 block of the Katy Freeway observed an eastbound red vehicle swerving and striking the retaining walls of the freeway. The deputy, who was transporting a prisoner at the time, called for the assistance of another unit. Prior to the arrival of the second unit, the deputy observed the victim's vehicle crash into the retaining wall and stop at 15400 Katy Freeway. The driver, Kevin Hafstien, was extremely uncooperative and had to be restrained with handcuffs as his aggression turned towards the deputy. The deputy, who had already called for an ambulance as a result of the accident, noticed Hafstien was not breathing. He performed CPR until HFD arrived.

According to Hafstien's family, he had numerous health problems and was on his way to work at the time of the accident. As with any in-custody death in the city limits, the HPD Homicide Division will investigate the circumstances surrounding this death and consult with the Harris County District Attorney's office. HPD's Mobility Management Division is investigating the accident, which occurred within the city limits of Houston.

The investigation is continuing.

NJM/JFC 5/14/05
Inc#73785905K

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.