Deputy Erika Serrato, 24, Killed in Tragic I-45 Crash Near The Woodlands Parkway

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is mourning the loss of one of our own following a tragic incident that occurred early Sunday morning.

On June 28, 2026, at approximately 2:39 a.m., deputies responded to multiple 911 calls reporting a multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 45 North near the Woodlands Parkway exit. Deputies arrived on scene and began assisting with this DWI crash investigation, including directing traffic to ensure the safety of those involved.

While deputies were actively working the scene, a heavy-duty commercial truck pulling a trailer struck Deputy Erika Serrato who was outside her vehicle directing traffic, along with two marked patrol vehicles that had emergency lights activated.

Deputy Serrato, 24 years old, who was assigned to District 2, was transported to a local hospital where she unfortunately succumbed to her injuries and was pronounced deceased. She was serving the community with dedication and courage at the time of her death. She has been employed with MCSO for 6 years.

An additional MCSO Deputy was also injured during the incident after being struck by debris. He sustained minor injuries, was treated at a local hospital and was released.

One of the drivers involved in the initial crash, identified as Ashton Jammer, a 34-year-old male, has been charged with Driving While Intoxicated and will be transported to the Montgomery County Jail.

The driver of the commercial vehicle that struck Deputy Serrato was transported to a local hospital, and this crash remains under investigation.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office extends sincere gratitude to all assisting agencies that responded to this tragic incident, including the Texas Department of Public Safety, Harris County Sheriff’s Office, Houston Police Department, Oak Ridge North Police Department, Shenandoah Police Department, Montgomery County Precinct 3 Constable’s Office, Harris County Precinct 4 Constable’s Office, The Woodlands Fire Department, South Montgomery County Fire Department, and Montgomery County Hospital District.

“Our hearts are broken today,” said Sheriff Doolittle. “Deputy Serrato made the ultimate sacrifice while serving and protecting our community. We ask that you keep her family, friends, and fellow deputies in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. We grieve alongside them.”

Additional information, including funeral arrangements, will be released in the coming days