Driver rescued from dangling car didn't have valid driver's license

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- The rescue of a driver whose car dangled from the third floor of a parking garage is more complex than it first seemed, and she may have been texting when the accident occurred.

The BMW that Demetra Arceneaux was driving on Sunday night plowed through the third parking garage of 2727 Elmside on Houston's West Side.

"I was actually up as it happened," said neighbor Stefani Wells. "Just a loud bang, screech, boom. Next thing I know, I go out to my car and just see a lady leaning over the ledge, and she was still in the car."

Wells says she and other neighbors quickly rushed to the vehicle. They were relieved when firefighters were able to stabilize the car, and rescue the driver.

"We found her behind the steering wheel, and were able to secure the vehicle," said David Dean of the Houston Fire Department. "We moved her through the sunroof, evaluated her, and sent her on her way."

Now sources close to the investigation say this is not just a simple case of a life saved.

They tell us that Arceneaux was jittery and uncooperative after she was rescued. Sources say she was reluctant to talk to officers about her rescue.

When Eyewitness News knocked on her door, a woman said through the door that Arceneaux did not live at that apartment unit.

Sources also tell Eyewitness News that Arceneaux told investigators she was texting while driving. Although Arceneaux has not received a ticket, sources tell us the investigation is continuing, and she could face charges.

"She needs to pay more attention, I guess," said Wells. "It's just fortunate she didn't go forward, be more careful."

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