Two grand juries last month declined to indict the driver who fatally struck Patricia Martin, 64, in a downtown Houston crosswalk in early 2024
Martin's family is left "defeated" and "doubtful" of the Harris Co. DA’s ability to prosecute cases involving other victims
www.axios.com/local/housto...
More: Shuet Ling Wong, 73, was hit and killed by a pickup driver on Bellaire Boulevard in November. Houston police investigators initially said she wasn’t in a crosswalk, but her daughters flew to Houston from across the globe to prove them wrong
www.axios.com/local/housto...
Harris County DA Sean Teare says his office won’t charge drivers who kill crosswalk users under Texas’ Lisa Torry Smith Act of 2021, instead pursuing other charges in those cases
But that method has repeatedly let drivers off the hook — and more could follow
www.axios.com/local/housto...
Individuals needing assistance or shelter can dial 3-1-1 to receive details on available overflow centers. Z Trips are being offered to individuals who wish to go to these overflow centers. Additionally, individuals can ask a Houston Police Officer to safely take them to these centers. City officials are urging anyone who is experiencing homelessness to seek shelter immediately and take advantage of these facilities. Dr. David Persse with the Houston Health Department says “The risk of hypothermia rises sharply in cold, wet conditions. Damp or wet clothing will accelerate heat loss. Staying dry is crucial to staying safe. Planning ahead and finding shelter can save your life. Always seek safe shelter when frigid rain is in the forecast.”
· Dress Warmly and Layer Up - If you need to go outside, wear multiple layers of clothing and cover as much exposed skin as possible. Wind chill can make temperatures feel colder than they actually are. · Remember the 4 P’s – People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants: Check on your neighbors, especially the vulnerable, bring pets indoors, protect exposed pipes, bring sensitive plants inside or cover them. · Avoid Driving in Flooded Areas or Stay Home – If you don’t need to be on the road, stay home. Avoid driving through flooded streets, as just 6 inches of water can cause you to lose control of your vehicle. · Know the Signs of Cold-Related Illnesses - Cold-related illnesses can occur when the body loses heat faster than it can produce it. · Heat Your Home Safely: Practice using heaters safely. · Stay informed by monitoring local weather reports and official sources on social media. Houston OEM’s social media channels: @HoustonOEM on X, Instagram & Facebook
Howdy, BlueSky!
The city of Houston is opening "overflow centers" for Houstonians facing homelessness to stay overnight Thursday (01/09/2025) as frigid rain sets in
Those in need can call 3-1-1. The city will offer a zTrip ride. HPD officers will also offer rides upon request
