Dallas, TX — A tragic hit-and-run incident early Saturday morning claimed the life of 29-year-old comedian Henry Jose Cruz, a beloved figure in the local comedy scene. The Dallas Police Department is actively investigating the crash as the driver remains unidentified.
Crash Occurred Early Saturday Morning
Authorities responded to reports of a major crash at Elm Street and the I-345 Ramp W around 2:15 a.m. Preliminary investigations revealed that Cruz was struck by a vehicle that fled the scene. He was immediately transported to a local hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
“We had a show at Shark’s Comedy Club. We went to cross the street… and a car came out of nowhere down the exit ramp, going extremely fast,” said friend Sagan Butler, who was walking with Cruz that night (Fox 4 News).
Friends Describe the Incident
Friends who accompanied Cruz after the comedy show recounted the terrifying sequence. The group had walked across the street to call an Uber, but as they crossed the I-345 exit ramps, the vehicle swerved and jumped the curb onto the median, striking Cruz while the rest of the group narrowly avoided being hit. Police later marked the vehicle’s path with orange spray-painted lines on the grass.
“When I noticed the car coming right at us, I tried to yell to my friends, ‘Hey, a car’s coming’. Soon as I was able to open my mouth to say anything, it was too late, the car was already right there on us,” said Noah Robertson, owner of Shark’s Comedy Club. He and others immediately called 911 and performed CPR, but Cruz later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.
Remembering Henry Cruz
Cruz is being remembered by friends and family as a bright, generous, and positive person who could light up any room. His best friend of 16 years, Angel Hernandez, said:
“He has a big energy, he lights up the whole room. He was the light at the end of the tunnel to me.”
Cruz’s mother lost her only son in the tragedy, with Hernandez describing the experience as “painful, devastated, heartbroken.”
Community Response and Memorial Plans
Friends and the local community are urging anyone with information to help locate the driver or for the driver to come forward. Robertson emphasized:
“This person should definitely come forward and turn themselves in. I do not know how you could sleep at night.”
A memorial show honoring Cruz will be held at Shark’s Comedy Club on Saturday, August 30, at 7 p.m., with proceeds supporting his family. Additionally, an online fundraiser has already raised over $7,500 to aid his loved ones.
Legacy of Laughter and Positivity
Friends encourage everyone to carry forward Cruz’s legacy, celebrating his life by continuing to spread happiness, laughter, and positivity.
“Don’t forget him. Just keep laughing, keep smiling, make the jokes, he wants us to, for sure,” said Butler.
What are your thoughts on this tragic loss? Share your memories and condolences in the comments below.
