Inset: Jude Russell, 10, and Ryver Russell, 8 (Crespo and Jirrels Funeral Home). Background: Crash involving a Baytown, Texas, police officer and the van carrying Jude and Ryver, who both died (KTRK).
A Texas police officer faces serious charges following a tragic incident where he collided with a vehicle full of children, resulting in two fatalities and multiple injuries. The officer was reportedly responding to an emergency call at high speeds without activating his patrol car’s lights and sirens, according to officials.
Michael Hightower, a 28-year-old officer from the Baytown Police Department, has been indicted on two counts of manslaughter alongside a charge of aggravated assault. After surrendering to authorities, he was released upon posting a $150,000 bond.
On the evening of October 23, Hightower was en route to assist with a “persons with a weapon” situation, as reported by the police. While passing through a green light at an intersection, he collided with a Honda Odyssey that was making a left turn. The minivan was carrying a woman and five children at the time of the crash.
The indictment highlights that Hightower was driving at a significantly high speed, neglecting to use his emergency lights or sirens. Local news outlet ABC affiliate KTRK reported that, despite having the right of way with a green light, Hightower was deemed responsible for the accident due to his excessive speed and failure to signal his emergency response.
Following the crash, Hightower and two of the children were airlifted to a medical facility. Tragically, Jude Russell, 10, and Ryver Russell, 8, succumbed to their injuries at the hospital. The three other children, aged 16, 14, and 3, sustained severe injuries, including multiple fractures and a brain bleed, as noted in a GoFundMe campaign. Hightower, who has been with the department for over two years, required leg surgery and is currently on medical leave.
The Baytown Police Department confirmed that Hightower is “fully cooperating with the legal process” as the case proceeds.
“This tragedy leaves us without words,” Chief John Stringer said after the crash. “Our hearts are heavy with sorrow for everyone impacted. As a father I feel this loss deeply and my heart breaks for everyone involved. We extend our sincerest condolences to the family during this heartbreaking time.”
Hightower”s next court date is scheduled for Jan. 12.
Jude had a “beautiful and joyous spirit,” his obituary said.
“Jude loved memorizing random facts and would often pose profound questions that he expected answers for,” the obituary reads. “He was a boy whose body and mind were never still. Jude enjoyed fishing and playing and watching sports. Jude also had an affinity for harmless mischief and enjoyed pranks.”
Ryver had a infectious laugh and an electric personality, the obituary stated.
“Ryver had an uninhibited imagination that allowed him to create beautiful art and weave the most intricate stories. Ryver valued others and cared for those around him deeply. Ryver was witty and never shied away from making a sassy comment or comeback,” it said.
