Driver Charged in Edinburg Crash That Hospitalized Officer; $1.5 Million Bond Set

Edinburg,Crash,Officer

The man accused of crashing into an Edinburg Police Department vehicle over the weekend, leaving an officer hospitalized, was formally charged in Edinburg Municipal Court on Monday. The suspect, identified as 30-year-old Sergio Enrique Guerra Jr., faces charges of intoxication assault causing bodily injury to a peace officer and is being held on a $1.5 million bond.

Details of the Crash

The incident occurred on Sunday around noon at the intersection of 24th Avenue and Shavon Street in Edinburg. Officer Juan J. Hernandez was driving through the intersection when Guerra’s vehicle struck his patrol unit, causing severe injuries. Hernandez suffered fractured ribs and a fractured left wrist, but has since been released from the hospital and is now recovering at home.

Edinburg Police Chief Jaime Ayala expressed relief that the outcome was not worse, noting that if the impact had been just a few inches closer to the driver’s door, the situation could have been fatal.

“We lost a deputy in Cameron County to what I understand was an impaired driver,” Chief Ayala stated. “We’re very fortunate that Officer Hernandez is at home recovering. Just inches closer to his door, and I think we would be having a different conversation today.”

The Charges and Bond Conditions

Guerra, a resident of Alamo, Texas, appeared before the Edinburg Municipal Court on Monday for his arraignment. He is charged with intoxication assault causing bodily injury to a peace officer, a serious offense under Texas law. The judge set his bond at $1.5 million. Should Guerra make bond, he will be placed under house arrest and required to follow strict conditions set by the court.

Rise in DWI Arrests

According to authorities, the number of DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) arrests in Edinburg has increased significantly this year, with 499 arrests made so far—already surpassing last year’s figures. Law enforcement officials are urging drivers to take responsibility and make use of available options to avoid impaired driving.

“Have a plan of where you’re going and how you’re going to get home,” Chief Ayala advised. “There are third-party rideshares available at the push of a button on your phone. There’s just no reason for this to happen.”

Community Impact

The incident has drawn attention to the dangers that impaired drivers pose not only to the public but also to law enforcement officers who put themselves at risk daily to keep the community safe. With another Cameron County deputy recently killed by a suspected impaired driver, this case serves as a stark reminder of the need for stricter enforcement and public awareness.

Conclusion

As the investigation continues, Sergio Enrique Guerra Jr. remains in custody pending his bond status. Officer Juan J. Hernandez is recovering, but the emotional and physical impact of the crash is still being felt within the Edinburg Police Department. The community and law enforcement officials alike hope this case will serve as a deterrent to prevent future tragedies caused by impaired driving.