Baytown, Texas — A Baytown police officer is facing serious criminal charges after a high-speed crash involving a minivan carrying children left two boys dead and several others severely injured, according to court records and local authorities.
Officer Michael Hightower, 28, was indicted this week on two counts of manslaughter and one count of aggravated assault in connection with the October collision. Prosecutors allege Hightower was responding to an emergency call without activating his lights or sirens while traveling at a high rate of speed.
Crash occurred during emergency response
The crash happened shortly after 7 p.m. on October 23 at a busy Baytown intersection. Police say Hightower was responding to a “persons with a weapon” call after another officer requested backup.
According to the indictment, Hightower entered the intersection on a green light but struck a Honda Odyssey minivan that was making a left turn. Inside the vehicle were a woman and five children.
While Hightower technically had the right of way, investigators concluded that his speed and failure to use emergency signals made him responsible for the collision.
Lights and sirens not activated
Court documents state Hightower was driving at a “high rate of speed” and did not have his emergency lights or siren turned on — a critical factor in the case.
Local outlets, citing police reports, confirmed that investigators determined the officer was at fault, despite having a green light, due to unsafe speed and lack of warning signals that could have alerted other drivers.
The impact caused catastrophic injuries to the children inside the minivan.
Two children killed, others critically hurt
Two boys, Jude Russell, 10, and Ryver Russell, 8, were airlifted to the hospital but later died from their injuries, authorities confirmed.
The three surviving girls — ages 16, 14, and 3 — suffered severe trauma, including:
- Multiple bone fractures
- A brain bleed
- Additional internal injuries
Details about their recovery were shared by family members through a GoFundMe campaign created to support medical expenses.
Hightower and two of the injured children were transported by helicopter following the crash.
Officer injured, placed on medical leave
Hightower sustained serious injuries in the collision and underwent surgery on his leg, according to Baytown police. He has been placed on medical leave and has worked with the department for more than two years.
He turned himself in earlier this week, posted $150,000 bond, and was released pending trial.
Baytown police said Hightower is cooperating with the legal process.
“This tragedy leaves us without words,” Police Chief John Stringer said after the crash. “Our hearts are heavy with sorrow for everyone impacted. As a father, I feel this loss deeply.”
Community mourning young victims
The deaths of Jude and Ryver have devastated the Baytown community.
In his obituary, Jude was remembered as a curious and energetic child who loved learning, sports, and playful mischief.
“Jude loved memorizing random facts and would often pose profound questions,” the obituary read. “He was a boy whose body and mind were never still.”
Ryver was described as creative, witty, and full of life.
“Ryver had an infectious laugh and an electric personality,” his obituary stated. “He valued others deeply and never shied away from a sassy comeback.”
Legal process moves forward
Hightower’s next court appearance is scheduled for January 12, where he is expected to formally respond to the charges.
The case has reignited discussion across Texas about police pursuit policies, emergency response protocols, and accountability when officers fail to follow safety procedures.
Legal experts note that indictments against on-duty officers in fatal crashes are relatively rare, making this case closely watched statewide.
Ongoing questions
Authorities have not said whether departmental policy violations could lead to internal discipline beyond the criminal case. The investigation remains active as prosecutors prepare for trial.
Meanwhile, the family of the victims continues to grieve while advocating for justice.
Do you believe emergency responders should face stricter penalties when safety protocols aren’t followed? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
