Driver Charged With Intoxication Manslaughter in Fatal Highway 281 Crash

Driver Charged With Intoxication Manslaughter in Fatal Highway 281 Crash

Father and Young Son Killed in Devastating Collision

HIDALGO COUNTY, TX — The man behind the wheel of a wrong-way crash on Highway 281 that killed a father and his 4-year-old son has been formally charged with two counts of intoxication manslaughter, officials confirmed. The driver, 24-year-old Jesus Sebastian Lopez, was released from the hospital and taken into custody at Hidalgo County Jail.

The deadly crash occurred last month when Lopez reportedly drove the wrong direction on the highway, striking the victims’ vehicle head-on. The collision claimed the lives of 32-year-old Marc Anthony Alvarez and his son, John Andrew Escamilla, who both died at the scene.

Additional Charges Filed

Beyond the two counts of intoxication manslaughter, Lopez faces:

• One count of intoxication assault
• One count of possession of a controlled substance

DPS troopers reported finding beer cans inside Lopez’s vehicle, raising further concerns about alcohol consumption and impaired driving. Investigators say toxicology results and witness statements support the charges filed.

What Comes Next

Lopez remains in custody as the legal process unfolds. Bond and court dates have not yet been announced. Prosecutors have indicated they will pursue the case aggressively, given the presence of a minor among the victims and the nature of the charges.

Helpful Links and Contact Information

• Hidalgo County Jail Inmate Search: https://www.hidalgocounty.us/105/Sheriff-s-Office
• Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS): https://www.dps.texas.gov
• Crime Stoppers Tip Line: 📞 (956) 668-8477

For updates on this case or to report suspected intoxicated driving, visit DPS online or contact local authorities anonymously.