News Summary
Austin is facing a troubling rise in traffic fatalities, as recent incidents over the weekend highlighted the growing dangers on the roads. The city has recorded its 30th fatal crash this year, resulting in a total of 34 deaths. A young woman’s death from a hit-and-run and a serious head-on collision that left four others injured have raised alarms among the community, prompting discussions about traffic safety measures. The Austin Police Department is actively investigating and seeking information from the public to improve road safety.
Austin is grappling with a disturbing increase in traffic fatalities, highlighted by two separate incidents over the weekend that resulted in significant injuries and loss of life. The city has now recorded its 30th fatal crash in 2025, totaling 34 deaths this year.
Fatal Hit-and-Run Incident Claims Young Life
A 20-year-old woman, identified as Erica Garza, died from injuries sustained in a hit-and-run crash that took place early Sunday morning, May 11, in Downtown Austin. The incident occurred just before 5 a.m. in the 700 block of East Seventh Street, located between Red River Street and Interstate 35. Police reported that a vehicle struck three pedestrians before fleeing the scene and heading northbound on the I-35 frontage road.
While two male pedestrians sustained minor injuries, Garza suffered severe injuries and was rushed to a local hospital. She was pronounced dead on Friday, May 16, leading to widespread concern and sorrow within the community. The Austin Police Department (APD) is currently investigating the hit-and-run and is actively seeking information regarding the suspect. The APD encourages anyone with knowledge about the incident to contact their Vehicular Homicide Unit or Crime Stoppers.
Head-On Collision Results in Serious Injuries
On Saturday morning, May 10, at around 9:30 a.m., a separate traffic incident occurred in the 7000 block of FM 969. This head-on crash between two vehicles left four individuals injured. Emergency responders, including firefighters and EMS, performed CPR on one of the patients on the scene before transporting all four individuals to a hospital for further treatment.
At the scene of the crash, officials reported that one person died, while another was listed in critical condition. The other two individuals sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The cause of the collision is still under investigation, with authorities working diligently to gather more details.
Rising Traffic Fatalities in Austin
The recent incidents have brought to light a troubling trend in Austin, as traffic fatalities continue to rise. The city recorded its 30th fatal crash this year, resulting in a total of 34 deaths since the start of 2025. This surge in fatalities has raised concerns among residents and city officials alike and has prompted discussions about traffic safety measures in the area.
As investigations into both incidents proceed, the community is called to respond actively by aiding law enforcement in the apprehension of those responsible for the hit-and-run. The APD remains committed to addressing the alarming rate of traffic incidents as they work to create a safer environment for all road users.
In light of these tragic events, the Austin community is reminded of the importance of safe driving and being vigilant while navigating the roads. As more details emerge surrounding both crashes, authorities are hopeful that enhanced safety protocols may help reduce the growing concerns surrounding traffic safety in the city.
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Additional Resources
- KXAN: Fatal Crash on East Riverside Drive
- Wikipedia: Austin, Texas
- KVUE: 7th Street Hit-and-Run Crash
- Google Search: Traffic Safety
- KKTV: Traffic Crash on Austin Bluffs
- Google Scholar: Traffic Accidents
- FOX 7 Austin: Head-On Collision Injures 4
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hit-and-Run Accidents
- CBS Austin: East Austin 2-Vehicle Collision
- Google News: Rising Traffic Fatalities
Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN
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