AUSTIN, Texas — Court documents reveal what may have led up to a deadly crash on Interstate 35 in North Austin.
According to an affidavit obtained by KVUE, witnesses reported that an 18-wheeler driven by Solomun Weldekeal Araya failed to brake before it slammed into stopped traffic. Araya allegedly hit a total of 19 vehicles in the crash that killed five people, including two children.
According to police, Araya showed signs of intoxication following the crash. The affidavit states Araya had bloodshot and watery eyes, mumbled speech and swayed while walking and turning, consistent with signs of central nervous system depressants.
Araya allegedly told police the crash happened because another vehicle cut him off, and he stated that he had not consumed any alcohol before the crash. A preliminary breathalyzer exam showed Araya had a Blood Alcohol Concentration of 0.00, however, Araya still showed “all six” signs of intoxication and failed a field sobriety exam.
Following the crash, Araya was taken to the hospital for further examination. He faces five charges of intoxication manslaughter along with two charges of intoxication assault.
Meanwhile, authorities spent nearly 14 hours cleaning up debris and diesel fuel that spilled out of the 18-wheeler before reopening all southbound lanes of I-35 to traffic Friday afternoon.
Austin police are encouraging anyone who needs to speak to a counselor about the crash to contact its Victim Services Unit by calling 512-974-5037 or by emailing [email protected].
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) said it’s coordinating with Austin police on a safety investigation into the crash. The criminal investigation remains ongoing.