Stolen 18-Wheeler Used to Injure 16 at Texas DPS Office

This morning, a suspect deliberately drove a stolen 18-wheeler into a Texas Department of Public Safety office in Brenham. His actions injured 16 people, including 3 who were flown to hospitals in critical condition.

Officials report that the suspect was denied a commercial drivers’ license on Thursday, April 11, and returned to the Brenham DPS office the next day with the stolen vehicle with intent to harm. He has been taken into custody, and there is no further threat to public safety.

Who Will Be Held Accountable for Casualties?

Obviously, the driver will be held criminally liable. What is less obvious is how these injured people—three of whom may have long-lasting impacts—are supposed to cover their medical bills or other recovery costs. Under the law, the damage committed by someone in a stolen vehicle belongs solely to the driver; the act of theft leaves the rightful owner free of liability (and rightly so).

But the reality is that this driver likely has no assets, policies, or other means of paying back the harm he’s caused. What recourse exists for injured civil servants at the Brenham DPS remains to be seen.

What matters now is that they’re safe, and those in critical condition are receiving the care they need. Our firm is hoping for a speedy recovery for all involved, as well as comfort for their families.