Baytown, Texas – A Baytown police officer has been indicted in connection with a devastating crash that killed two young siblings and injured several others after authorities say he was speeding to an emergency call without activating his patrol car’s lights or sirens.
Baytown police officer Michael Hightower, 28, faces two counts of manslaughter and one count of aggravated assault stemming from the October 23 collision. Hightower turned himself in earlier this week, was booked into jail, and later released after posting a $150,000 bond, according to court records.
What happened the night of the crash
The crash occurred shortly after 7 p.m. on October 23 at a busy Baytown intersection. According to investigators, Hightower was responding to a “persons with a weapon” call after another officer requested assistance.
Police said Hightower was traveling through the intersection with a green light when his patrol vehicle struck a Honda Odyssey that was making a left-hand turn. Inside the minivan were a woman and five children.
Two of the children — Jude, 8, and Ryver, 10 — were killed in the crash. Several other occupants of the vehicle suffered injuries, though authorities have not publicly detailed the extent of those injuries.
Speeding without emergency signals cited in indictment
The indictment alleges that Hightower was driving at a “high rate of speed” while responding to the call without activating his emergency lights or sirens.
While Hightower technically had the right of way due to the green light, investigators concluded that his speed and failure to use emergency signals played a central role in the crash. A local outlet, citing a police report, noted that officers determined Hightower was at fault under department policy and Texas traffic law because emergency vehicles traveling at high speeds are required to use lights and sirens to warn other drivers.
Charges and legal process
Hightower has been formally charged with:
- Two counts of manslaughter
- One count of aggravated assault
His next court appearance is scheduled for January 12. Authorities have not said whether additional disciplinary actions from the police department are pending while the criminal case proceeds.
In a brief statement, Baytown police confirmed that Hightower is “cooperating fully with the legal process.”
Police chief reacts to tragedy
Baytown Police Chief John Stringer addressed the incident publicly in the days following the crash, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of life.
“This tragedy leaves us without words,” Stringer said. “Our hearts are heavy with sorrow for everyone impacted. As a father, I feel this loss deeply and my heart breaks for everyone involved. We extend our sincerest condolences to the family during this heartbreaking time.”
Remembering Jude and Ryver
As the legal case unfolds, the focus for many in the community remains on remembering the two young lives lost.
According to his obituary, Jude had a “beautiful and joyous spirit” and was known for his curiosity and boundless energy.
“Jude loved memorizing random facts and would often pose profound questions that he expected answers for,” the obituary read. “He was a boy whose body and mind were never still. Jude enjoyed fishing and playing and watching sports. He also had an affinity for harmless mischief and enjoyed pranks.”
Ryver, described as creative and quick-witted, was remembered for his laughter and imagination.
“Ryver had an uninhibited imagination that allowed him to create beautiful art and weave the most intricate stories,” the obituary stated. “Ryver valued others and cared for those around him deeply. He was witty and never shied away from making a sassy comment or comeback.”
Broader questions about emergency driving
The case has renewed scrutiny around how officers respond to emergency calls, particularly the balance between urgency and public safety. Law enforcement policies typically allow officers to exceed speed limits during emergencies only when proper warning signals are activated, a safeguard designed to prevent exactly this kind of tragedy.
As the case moves through the courts, it is likely to draw continued attention from both the community and law enforcement agencies nationwide.
Share your thoughts or experiences related to emergency vehicle safety in the comments below.
