Traffic Incident at 8700 East Freeway

August 12, 2007 - Charges are pending against a suspect arrested in a fatal traffic accident at 8700 East Freeway (Interstate 10) about 8:35 p.m. on Saturday (Aug. 11).

The suspect, Juan Felix Salinas (H/m, DOB 8/23/65), was transported to an area hospital where mandatory toxicology tests were performed. Preliminary results indicate Salinas had a blood alcohol level of three times the legalized limit of intoxication. He faces three counts of intoxication manslaughter.

The identities of the three victims, a male and female adult and one male child, are pending notification to family members and autopsies by the Harris County Medical Examiner's office

HPD Mobility Incident Management Division Sergeant S. Perez and Officer R. Davidson reported:

According to witnesses, Salinas was driving a 1993 white Dodge van west on the East Freeway at a high rate of speed when he attempted a lane change and struck the rear of a 2007 gray Toyota. The Toyota burst into flame and the resulting fire consumed the victims.

The investigation is continuing.

NJM/JFC 8/12/07
Inc #118709707

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