Travis County deputy pinned under 18-wheeler tire while assisting another driver, sheriff says

AUSTIN, Texas - A Travis County deputy is recovering after being pinned under an 18-wheeler tire that slid on an icy road, the sheriff's office said. 

On February 1, TCSO Senior Public Information Officer Kristen Dark provided an update on the deputy, who underwent surgery on January 31 after the crash. 

Dark said in a news release that the deputy's surgery "went very well" and that the deputy is "doing much better" and that "he's alert and talking with his family."

The deputy is expected to make a full recovery.

"His family asked TCSO to express their gratitude for the efforts of everyone who assisted with his rescue. They also extend their thanks for the incredible outpouring of support from numerous agencies and community members. We at TCSO wholeheartedly agree. We deeply appreciate the care and concern of our incredible Travis County community," Dark said.

The Travis County Sheriff's Office said around 8:46 a.m., the deputy pulled over and exited his vehicle to assist the driver of an 18-wheeler that went off the road in the 3900 block of SH 130 northbound. 

While assisting the driver, another 18-wheeler slid on the icy road and struck the deputy. TCSO said the deputy was pinned under one of the tractor tires.

TCSO, DPS, AFD and ATCEMS all helped free the deputy, and he was taken to the hospital for his injuries. 

"I want to offer my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who responded and assisted this deputy in his time of dire need. Both his biological and TCSO family are relieved and thankful that he’s alive. Please, please don’t drive on these icy roadways. It’s not worth your life or the lives of the first responders who are literally putting their personal safety on the line," said Sheriff Sally Hernandez.