Hailey
Early Wednesday morning, west Houston saw a tragic crash on the Katy Freeway feeder road after a burglary investigation went terribly wrong.
One person died, and two others were hospitalized following a high-speed collision near Gessner Road. Here’s everything you need to know about the incident, road closures, and alternate routes.
What Happened During the Crash?
According to investigators, the incident occurred just after 3 a.m. on the westbound feeder road of the Katy Freeway.
Three suspects, all believed to be in their 30s, were inside a maroon car that had just been involved in a burglary at a nearby AutoZone. Authorities reported that the suspects had stolen car batteries shortly before the crash.
The car struck a wall with significant force, trapping all three occupants inside. Emergency crews from the Houston Fire Department had to cut the driver out of the wrecked vehicle. Sadly, the driver was pronounced dead at the scene.
The other two people were rushed to a nearby hospital, and their conditions have not yet been confirmed.
Important Notes From Police
- This crash was not the result of a police chase.
- Officers were searching for the vehicle related to the burglary when they came across the crash.
- Several stolen car batteries were found inside and around the vehicle.
- Investigations are ongoing as authorities work to understand how the crash happened.
Impact on Traffic and Road Closures
The westbound feeder road of the Katy Freeway near Gessner Road was completely shut down while crews worked to clear the crash site. The main lanes of I-10 were not affected, but drivers on nearby roads should expect delays.
Alternate Routes for Drivers
Here are some options for drivers heading west while the feeder road is closed:
| Route | Details |
|---|---|
| Main Lanes of I-10 | Best option for through traffic; main lanes are not impacted. |
| Bunker Hill Road or Blalock Road | Exit earlier, use these roads, and reconnect to I-10 west or parallel streets. |
| Sam Houston Tollway (Beltway 8) | Use North or South to bypass the area entirely and rejoin I-10 west. |
| Westview Drive | Runs parallel to Katy Freeway, useful to navigate around closure before reconnecting. |
Drivers should allow extra travel time, follow posted detours, and stay alert for traffic changes while the investigation continues.
The early morning Katy Freeway feeder crash serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers tied to high-speed vehicle incidents and criminal activity. With one person dead and two others hospitalized, authorities continue to investigate the events leading up to this fatal collision.
Drivers are advised to follow alternate routes, stay cautious, and give extra time for their commute as emergency crews clear the site and complete the investigation.