Texas deputy killed after truck slams into crash scene during DWI investigation

A Texas deputy was killed early Sunday morning after being struck by a commercial truck while responding to a crash on Interstate 45 in The Woodlands, north of Houston. According to the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office , the incident happened around 2:39 a.m. Sunday near the Woodlands Parkway exit on Interstate 45 North. Deputies responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a multi-vehicle crash. While investigating what officials described as a DWI-related crash and directing traffic around the scene, a heavy-duty commercial truck pulling a trailer struck Deputy Erika Serrato, who was outside her patrol vehicle. The truck also hit two marked patrol vehicles with their emergency lights activated, authorities said. Deputy Serrato, 24, was taken to a local hospital, where she died from her injuries. She had served with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office for six years and was assigned to District 2. Another deputy was struck by debris during the crash and suffered minor injuries. Officials said he was treated at a local hospital and later released. Authorities said one of the drivers involved in the original crash, 34-year-old Ashton Jammer, has been charged with Driving While Intoxicated and will be booked into the Montgomery County Jail. The driver of the commercial truck that struck Deputy Serrato was also taken to a hospital. Officials said the fatal crash remains under investigation. In a statement, Sheriff Wesley Doolittle said the department is grieving the loss of one of its own. "Our hearts are broken today. Deputy Serrato made the ultimate sacrifice while serving and protecting our community. We ask that you keep her family, friends, and fellow deputies in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. We grieve alongside them." The sheriff's office thanked the Texas Department of Public Safety, Harris County Sheriff's Office, Houston Police Department, Oak Ridge North Police Department, Shenandoah Police Department, Montgomery County Precinct 3 Constable's Office, Harris County Precinct 4 Constable's Office, The Woodlands Fire Department, South Montgomery County Fire Department, and Montgomery County Hospital District for assisting at the scene. Officials said additional information, including funeral arrangements for Deputy Serrato, will be released in the coming days.