AUSTIN, Texas — At least five people were killed in a crash on Interstate 35 late Thursday night, and nearly a dozen more were hurt.
Following the crash, the Austin Police Department (APD) confirmed that 37-year-old Solomun Weldekeal Araya has been charged with five counts of intoxication manslaughter for each person killed. He’s also facing two charges of intoxication assault.
Seventeen people and 17 vehicles were involved in the crash on the southbound lanes of I-35 near Parmer Lane. According to Austin-Travis County EMS (ATCEMS), three adults, one child and a baby all died at the scene.
Out of the 11 people who were taken to hospitals, two had serious injuries, two had severe injuries and one child suffered possibly life-threatening injuries.
Who were the victims of the crash?
Officials haven’t released their identities yet or revealed if any of the victims were related.
ATCEMS said all the people who were in critical condition were removed from the crash scene within 40 minutes. More than 14 hours after the crash happened, officials reopened the southbound lanes of I-35 to traffic.
Resources for victims
Austin police made assistance available to anyone following the tragic crash. Those in need of support may contact APD Victim Services Counselors by calling 512-974-5037 or by emailing [email protected].
The Texas Attorney General’s Office also offers the Crime Victims’ Compensation Program to help cover expenses after a crime, including medical bills, counseling and lost wages. To see if you qualify for the program, you can explore their portal here and apply for the program online or by mail.
Meanwhile, the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said it’s coordinating with police on a safety investigation regarding the crash.