In a shocking incident in Brenham, Texas, a semitrailer driver, Clenard Parker, deliberately crashed a stolen 18-wheeler into a public safety building after being rejected for the renewal of his commercial driver’s license. This tragic event resulted in one fatality and injuries to 13 others. The crash caused significant damage to the building, leaving a gaping hole in its entrance and scattering debris across the parking lot.
After ramming the building once, Parker attempted to reverse the truck to strike it again before being apprehended by authorities. Brenham Mayor Atwood Kenjura lamented the senseless tragedy, emphasizing the unfortunate circumstances surrounding the incident.
Parker, aged 42, was swiftly detained by authorities at the scene without resistance. While facing multiple felony charges, the specific charges were not immediately disclosed. Earlier on the day of the incident, Parker had been informed that his license renewal was denied by the Texas Department of Public Safety, though the reasons for the rejection were not specified.
Many Hurt as Vehicle Smashes into Texas Safety Office (Credits: The Durango Herald)
The crash trapped one individual in the building for a period of time, but fortunately, no serious injuries were reported among the office’s employees. Following the incident, several individuals were hospitalized, with others receiving on-site medical treatment.
Parker, a resident of Chappell Hill, was held in the Washington County jail on charges of evading arrest, causing bodily injury, and unauthorized vehicle use. Authorities were uncertain about Parker’s criminal history and were investigating whether he was armed during the crash, as well as exploring the possibility of terrorism-related charges.
Law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, were actively involved in the investigation, and a heavy police presence surrounded the area. Both Senator Lois Kolkhorst and Mayor Kenjura commended the swift response of law enforcement, noting that it potentially averted a more catastrophic outcome. The Texas Department of Public Safety, responsible for various law enforcement tasks, including driver’s license issuance, was leading the investigation with support from the Texas Rangers.
