Child killed by alleged drunk driver who took pictures of crash instead of helping, records show

Shannon Ryan Image
Tuesday, December 3, 2024
Driver took pictures of deadly crash instead of helping, officials say
Records state that Joel Gonzalez Chacin was allegedly drunk when he crashed near Bammel North Houston Road, killing a 7-year-old girl.

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- A 7-year-old girl was killed by an allegedly drunk driver in northeast Harris County on Sunday.

Records state that 41-year-old Joel Gonzalez Chacin was reportedly intoxicated when he slammed into a car at the intersection of Bammel North Houston Road and the Sam Houston Parkway around 2:45 a.m. Sunday.

A woman behind the wheel of the other vehicle was injured, and her 7-year-old passenger was killed.

According to a magistrate, Gonzalez Chacin took photographs "instead of helping" and then reportedly drove off.

The magistrate set Gonzalez Chacin's bond at $150,000.

"Given the seriousness of this offense, a high bond is necessary," she said.

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