HARRIS COUNTY, Texas – A northwest Harris County father is entering the new year hoping for answers after his only son was killed in a multi-vehicle hit-and-run — even as he knows no explanation will ease the loss.
33-year-old Christopher Brown was struck and killed around 5:15 a.m. on Dec. 17 while walking along Highway 529 near Jackrabbit Road, according to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office. Investigators say multiple vehicles hit Brown, but the driver who struck him first never stopped.
Just minutes from where the crash happened, Christopher’s father, Dexter Brown, is left surrounded by memories inside the apartment they shared.
“Mainly just his photo when he was a baby, just, you know, in school or whatever,” Brown said.
The loss came just days before Christmas — a time Dexter Brown says has been especially difficult.
“Mainly just the loneliness of him not coming here, being at home, just thinking about the little simple things that people normally take for granted,” he said.
That grief is compounded by frustration over how his son’s life ended.
“I wasn’t expecting that call at all,” Brown said.
Investigators say Christopher Brown, described by family as creative, caring and a video game enthusiast, was hit by as many as six to eight vehicles after the initial impact.
“It just kept happening,” Brown said. “And I feel like if the first driver had stopped, they may have prevented the other vehicles from hitting him.”
Deputies are searching for the first vehicle involved, described as a 2023 or 2024 Toyota 4Runner that was traveling westbound on Highway 529. Investigators say the SUV likely has a broken left headlamp and bumper damage.
Dexter Brown is urging the driver to come forward.
“I would ask them first to turn themselves in,” he said. “And second, care — because you’d want someone to care about you and your loved one.”
Funeral arrangements for Christopher Brown have not yet been finalized.
Crime Stoppers of Houston is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to an arrest. Tips can be submitted anonymously by calling 713-222-TIPS (8477).
Anyone with information can also contact the Harris County Sheriff’s Office Vehicular Crimes Division at 713-274-7400.