Houston, TX – A woman had a frightening encounter Thursday afternoon when her SUV became trapped in a sudden sinkhole in northwest Harris County, highlighting ongoing concerns about aging infrastructure and road safety in the area.
How the Incident Happened
The incident occurred around 2:30 p.m. at the intersection of Hardway and Antione, when the vehicle owner had just exited a CVS store. According to the owner of OnlyTow Wrecker Service, who witnessed the incident while returning from a job with a coworker, the ground suddenly collapsed beneath her car, forming a sinkhole large enough to trap the SUV.
“I was shocked when I saw the lady’s car,” the tow company owner said, requesting anonymity. He added that it was unusual to see such a large portion of the road suddenly give way.
Quick Rescue by Tow Company
The tow company crew acted quickly, helping the woman safely remove her SUV from the hollowed-out section of the street.
The woman was not injured and declined medical attention at the scene. The vehicle sustained minor damage to the front bumper and undercarriage, but was still drivable. She was able to safely drive away after the rescue, as reported.
The tow company owner emphasized the importance of staying calm and alert in such situations and praised the woman for remaining composed during the ordeal.
Sinkholes: A Growing Concern
Sinkholes in urban areas are often caused by aging underground infrastructure, water main breaks, or natural soil erosion, especially after heavy rainfall. While rare, sudden collapses like this can pose serious risks to drivers and pedestrians.
Authorities in Harris County urge residents to report unusual road damage or depressions immediately and avoid driving in areas showing signs of road instability.
Community Response
Residents expressed concern on social media about the state of local roads and called for increased inspections to prevent similar incidents. The intersection of Hardway and Antione will likely be monitored closely in the coming days as officials assess potential hazards.
Reminder for Drivers
- Always remain alert when driving in areas with older roads or visible road damage.
- If a vehicle becomes trapped in a sinkhole, stay inside if safe and call for assistance.
- Report road collapses immediately to local authorities to prevent accidents.
Have you ever encountered a sudden road collapse or sinkhole? Share your experiences and thoughts in the comments below – your story could help raise awareness and prevent future incidents!
