HPD employee dies in Hurricane Beryl floodwaters while on his way to work

HOUSTON – A Houston Police Department employee is dead after driving through high waters during Hurricane Beryl Monday morning.

HPD stated that 54-year-old Russell Richardson, an Information Security Officer in the Office of Technology Services, was caught in rising floodwaters on Houston Avenue.

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During a news conference Monday afternoon, Houston Mayor John Whitmire said the employee was en route to work when he exited I-45 and got caught in the flood waters. Whitmire said Richardson attempted to call for a rescue but was found submerged in his vehicle.

Whitmire encouraged Houstonians that although Beryl has passed, there are still downed trees, power lines, and several flooded streets. Houstonians are encouraged to stay off the roads.

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Three people in total died during the hurricane, according to Whitmire.

• Death Toll: At least 3 killed in Houston area during Hurricane Beryl