By Trend News Line 2024-04-02 15:16:12.
BASTROP COUNTY TRAGEDY UNFOLDS
In a heartbreaking turn of events in Bastrop County, Texas, a truck driver has been charged with criminally negligent homicide after crashing into a Hays CISD school bus, resulting in the tragic deaths of a 5-year-old boy and a 33-year-old man. The driver, Jerry Hernandez, reportedly failed multiple drug tests and was operating with a “prohibited” license at the time of the fatal crash.
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Driver’s Reckless Actions
According to court records, Hernandez admitted to smoking marijuana and using cocaine before the incident and had only slept for three hours prior to the collision on State Highway 21. The affidavit also revealed that his employer, FJM Concrete, failed to conduct proper background checks and neglected to verify his drug test history before hiring him.
Lack of Oversight
The federal Drug and Alcohol Clearinghouse records showed that Hernandez had previously refused a drug test in 2020 and tested positive for marijuana in 2022 and cocaine in 2023, leading to a prohibited license. Despite these red flags, a loophole in Texas law allowed him to continue driving with a valid CDL.
Employer Accountability
Investigators highlighted the negligence of FJM Concrete, stating that the company should have been aware of Hernandez’s status through the Clearinghouse. The owner, Francisco Martinez, now faces charges for employing an unlicensed driver in an unrelated case.
Tragic Consequences
The devastating crash claimed the lives of young Ulises Rodriguez Montoya, a pre-kindergarten student on the bus, and Ryan Wallace, a UT student in another vehicle. The school bus was transporting students and adults back from a field trip when the collision occurred.
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Disturbing Revelations
Following the incident, Hernandez initially denied recent drug use but later admitted to smoking marijuana and using cocaine before the crash. He cited lack of sleep and a long workday as contributing factors to the tragedy.
Community Impact
The entire community has been shaken by the events of that fateful day, with 51 individuals sustaining injuries in the crash. Superintendent Eric Wright confirmed that all students have been released from the hospital, but the emotional scars will linger for years to come.
Legal Ramifications
Hernandez’s disregard for safety protocols and his employer’s oversight failures have raised questions about accountability and regulations within the commercial driving industry. The tragic loss of innocent lives serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of reckless behaviour on the road.
Conclusion
As the community mourns the loss of two valuable lives, the legal proceedings against Hernandez and Martinez serve as a sombre reminder of the importance of upholding safety standards in all aspects of life. The tragedy in Bastrop County has left a lasting impact on all those involved, highlighting the need for stricter regulations and oversight in the transportation industry..
– Truck driver prohibited from driving CDL
– Failed drug tests fatal bus crash affidavit.
