Authorities in Brenham, Texas, revealed that a semitrailer driver intentionally crashed a stolen 18-wheeler into a public safety building where his renewal for a commercial driver’s license had been rejected. The incident resulted in the death of one person and injuries to 13 others. The driver, identified as Clenard Parker, 42, was apprehended by authorities after attempting to ram the building a second time. Officials described the crash as a senseless tragedy and announced that Parker would face multiple felony charges, though the specific charges were not specified.
The motive behind the intentional crash was revealed to be the rejection of Parker’s renewal for his commercial driver’s license by employees at the office. Parker did not resist when taken into custody and was held without bail in the Washington County jail on charges of suspicion of evading arrest causing serious bodily injury and unauthorized use of a vehicle. Authorities were still investigating whether Parker had a criminal record or was armed at the time of the crash. The FBI was assisting in the investigation to determine if Parker’s actions could be classified as an act of terrorism.
Although one person was killed in the crash, no employees at the driver’s license office suffered serious injuries, according to Republican state Sen. Lois Kolkhorst. Several individuals were transported to hospitals for treatment, with others being released after receiving medical attention on the scene. The incident prompted a heavy police presence in the area, as well as warnings for drivers to avoid the vicinity of the building. Officials praised law enforcement’s quick response, which helped prevent a more significant tragedy from unfolding.
Authorities highlighted the potential for a much larger catastrophe if Parker had successfully struck the building again, leading to a collapse that could have resulted in more injuries and fatalities. The Texas Department of Public Safety, a key state law enforcement agency, was overseeing the investigation into the incident. The agency, which includes troopers and Texas Rangers, plays a vital role in border security efforts along the U.S.-Mexico border. The Texas Rangers were leading the probe into the crash, with assistance from local and federal authorities.
The community of Brenham, located about 80 miles west of Houston, was shaken by the violent act, with officials acknowledging the gravity of the situation. The incident left behind significant damage to the building and raised concerns about public safety. The Texas Department of Public Safety, responsible for issuing driver’s licenses among other duties, vowed to continue its operations despite the tragic event. As the investigation unfolded, details about Parker’s background and possible motives were expected to come to light, shedding further light on the disturbing incident that unfolded in the quiet town of Brenham.
