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A Cameron County Precinct 1 deputy was hit and killed Monday night while assisting with another crash.
The Texas Department of Public Safety said the crash happened at approximately 6:45 p.m. on State Highway 48 and Marine Way Road, which resulted in the death of Ruben Garcia, a Brownsville resident and deputy constable.
Garcia had been parked in a marked patrol unit when a white Chevrolet Silverado rear-ended the unit, according to the release.
DPS has not immediately identified the driver, but said he admitted to being distracted while looking at his phone. DPS suspects the driver was under the influence and a blood warrant was obtained.
On Tuesday afternoon, DPS said in an update that the driver was transported to Valley Baptist Hospital in Brownsville with non-life threatening injuries. Authorities said after he is released from the hospital, he will be charged with intoxication manslaughter causing death to a police officer.
On Facebook, Cameron County Precinct 5 sent its thoughts and prayers to the family, friends and colleagues of Garcia.
“May they find strength during this incredibly difficult time,” the post stated. “We are forever grateful for the sacrifice made in the line of duty to keep our community safe.”
The Cameron County Sheriff’s Office wrote that they were “saddened” by the news of Garcia’s death and extended their condolences to his family, friends and colleagues.
“Deputy Garcia served his community with unwavering dedication and courage, and his absence will be felt throughout the entire community,” they said on Facebook.
Senator Morgan LaMantia, who is running for re-election, stated on Facebook that she was “shattered” by the news of Garcia, adding that his life was a testament of those who serve.
“May his family, friends, and colleagues find strength in the legacy of his service,” she wrote. “His presence will be deeply missed, but not forgotten.”
In the Upper Valley, the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office expressed their condolences to the families, friends and colleagues of Cameron County Precinct 1.
“Our thoughts are with them during this difficult time,” their Facebook post said. “We are deeply grateful for his service and sacrifice in protecting our community.”
Constable Lazaro “Larry” Gallardo Jr. out of Hidalgo County Precinct 3 asked to keep Garcia, his family, Cameron County Constable Normal Esquivel and his department in everyone’s prayers.
The Edinburg Police Department also extended their condolences to all affected by Garcia’s death.
“We are profoundly grateful for his dedicated service and ultimate sacrifice in protecting the community,” the post said.
Several police agencies, including Mission, Donna, Harlingen and Weslaco, have also expressed their remorse.
Garcia’s death comes just a day after an Edinburg police officer was hit by a suspected drunk driver and was sent to a hospital.
Similarly, Texas Highway Trooper Kevin Ramirez Vasquez died Monday after being struck by a vehicle while investigating a crash on Sept. 17 in the Lubbock area.
Staff Writer Mark Reagan contributed to this report.
Editor’s note: This story has been updated with new information.
Here’s the latest update:
McAllen man charged in fatal crash that killed Cameron County deputy constable
