Two people were killed early Sunday morning in a fiery crash that Garland police say was caused by a suspected drunken driver.
The crash happened at about 2:30 a.m. on westbound Highway 66 between Dexham and East Centerville roads.
Police investigators think a tan SUV driven by Gustavo Huerta Jr. rear-ended a maroon car, which caused the car to hit a concrete barrier, overturn then crash and burn in a ditch.
The two people in the car died at the scene. Their identities have not been released.
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"Two people lost their lives, and I can't imagine leaving this way, they weren't able to get out of the vehicle," Garland police spokesperson Felicia Jones said.
She said the occupants in the car were not able to get help due to the fire.
"It was fully engulfed and there were no ways for them to get to the vehicle to assist them, it's very horrible, very horrific," Jones said. "This is why we stress the fact: don't drink and drive."
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Huerta, 30, stayed at the scene after the crash. Police said the investigation led officers to think he was impaired. Jones said there was a warrant for a blood sample.
Huerta was arrested and faces two counts of intoxication manslaughter, police said. His bail has not been set.
The westbound lanes of the highway reopened at about 11:40 a.m.
"It is a holiday weekend and we put out these public safety announcements annually, this is what we do every day, letting the public know about these safety tips. Don't drink and drive we have so many rideshare options, there are too many options for us to be irresponsible and get on the road after we consume alcohol," Jones said.
"If you know you're going to be out drinking, give someone your keys, use rideshare options, know your limits, we have to be considerate of not just ourselves, but everyone else that's on the roadway."
