Possibly suicidal woman hit, killed by 18-wheeler after jumping out of car, police say

A woman was killed after she jump into traffic and was hit by a passing 18-wheeler, Jan. 8, 2019. (KPRC)

HOUSTON – All main lanes were closed after a woman was killed after being hit by an 18-wheeler truck near downtown Houston.

According to police, a couple was in a brown Chevrolet Impala heading southbound on I-45 near Scott Street around 12:45 a.m. Tuesday when the woman became emotionally distraught and suicidal.

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The woman, 22, began making suicidal comments to her boyfriend before opening the passenger side door and jumping out of the moving vehicle, authorities said.

Officers said she stood up and ran out into the lane, where an 18-wheeler driver also traveling southbound on I-45 did not see the woman and hit her. The woman was killed by the impact.

The man who was with the woman and the driver of the 18-wheeler both stopped and are cooperating with police. 

Authorities said the man who was with the woman said she was suicidal and having emotional problems.

No one else was injured in the accident. There were no charges in the case.

If you or anyone you know is dealing with depression or suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255. The hotline is free and available 24 hours a day.


About the Author:

Daniela Sternitzky-Di Napoli has been a digital news editor at KPRC 2 since 2018. She is a published poet and has background in creative writing and journalism. Daniela has covered events like Hurricane Harvey and the Astros World Series win. In her spare time, Daniela is an avid reader and loves to spend time with her two miniature dachshunds.