Houston Police Department

November 26, 2005 -- Houston police are investigating a fatal traffic accident at 2300 West Loop South about 6 p.m. on Friday (Nov. 25).

The deceased victim is identified as Josue Avila, 8, of an unknown address.

HPD Mobility Incident Management Division Sergeant H.M. Garcia and Officer R. Stafford reported:

According to witnesses, the driver of a northbound 18-wheeler struck the rear of a gold Toyota Camary as he (the 18-wheeler) attempted a lane change. This collision created a chain of events in which the Toyota was dragged several yards by the 18-wheeler and struck in the rear by the driver of another vehicle, who fled the scene. Josue Avila, who was a rear seat passenger in the Toyota, was pronounced dead at the scene. Three other passengers of the Toyota were transported to Ben Taub General Hospital with minor injuries.

Anyone with information in this case is urged to contact the HPD Mobility Incident Management Division's, Hit-and-Run Section at 713-247-4065 or Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.

The investigation is continuing.

NJM/ 11/26/05
Inc #178429605

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200.