February 4, 2014 - Houston police are investigating a fatal traffic accident at 17200 Eastex Freeway (North U.S. Highway 59) about 2:20 a.m. today.

The identity of the male victim, 44, is pending verification by the Harris County Institute of Forensic Sciences.

HPD Vehicular Crimes Division Sergeant J. Rossman and Officer A. Hart reported:

The victim was driving a red Dodge Ram pickup truck north on the Eastex Freeway with his brother as a front seat passenger. According to the brother, as the vehicle was traveling at freeway speeds, the driver opened his door and jumped out of the truck. The passenger (brother) was able to gain control of the truck and drove back to the area to check on the victim. Paramedics arrived and pronounced the victim dead at the scene.

The brother admitted to officers he and the driver had been drinking.

No charges have been filed in this case and there are no known witnesses.

Anyone with information in this accident is asked to contact the HPD Vehicular Crimes Division at 713-247-4072.

JFC/VHS 2-4-14
Inc #014511114-T