Harris County, TX — A 40-year-old man was arrested on a second-offense DWI charge after a Harris County Precinct 8 deputy witnessed a crash along the East Freeway, according to the constable’s office.
The incident happened around 6:20 p.m. Aug. 15 in the 14300 block of the East Freeway, where construction had reduced traffic to one lane.
Deputy E. Conrad was monitoring traffic when several motorists were observed using the improved shoulder to pass other vehicles. Authorities said the lead vehicle stopped on the shoulder and was struck from behind by a black Ford Expedition. The Expedition then drove over a curb and entered the service road.
Deputy Conrad caught up with the Expedition and conducted a traffic stop. The driver was identified as Gilberto Cantu, 40.
According to the constable’s office, Cantu showed multiple signs of intoxication and underwent standardized field sobriety tests. A search of the Expedition also reportedly uncovered multiple open containers of alcoholic beverages.
Authorities said a criminal-history check showed Cantu had a previous DWI conviction. The Harris County District Attorney’s Office accepted a charge of Driving While Intoxicated — Second Offense.
Cantu was transported to the Harris County Joint Processing Center, and his bond was set at $100.
Deputies searched for the other vehicle involved in the initial collision but were unable to locate it.
Charges are accusations, and Cantu is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.