41-year-old Hector Lemus has been found guilty of Intoxication Manslaughter and Intoxication Manslaughter Causing Serious Bodily Injury following a tragic incident on December 8, 2023. The victims, who were on their way to assist an elderly family member, were involved in a collision with Lemus, who was driving under the influence of alcohol and cocaine.
According to the investigation conducted by the Dallas Police Department, Lemus was driving at high speeds, reaching 98 mph on University Hills Boulevard just moments before the collision occurred. The impact caused the victims' vehicle to roll over and catch fire, resulting in the death of the driver and severe injuries to the passenger.
The surviving victim suffered burns on over 60% of her body, leading to the amputation of both her legs. Good Samaritans who rushed to help were also injured in the process.
Lemus was found to have nearly twice the legal limit of alcohol in his system at the time of the incident. On May 2nd, he pleaded guilty to both charges and was handed the maximum sentences, with an affirmative finding of a deadly weapon (his vehicle) in both cases. This means he must serve at least half of his sentence before being eligible for parole.
Family members of the victims delivered powerful victim-impact statements during the plea hearing. Lemus has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for Intoxication Manslaughter and 10 years for Intoxication Manslaughter Causing Serious Bodily Injury, with a Deadly Weapon Finding.
