No Criminal Charges for Driver in I-270 Wreck that Killed 2

The driver involved in a traffic incident that killed two off-duty officers last year will not face any criminal charges, according to Ramon Korionoff, spokesman for Montgomery County State’s Attorney John McCarthy.

Roberto Garza Palazios, 28, pleaded guilty to a traffic violation of negligent driving that resulted in death and was fined $280, according to court documents.

Deputy Chief State Fire Marshal Sander Cohen was driving southbound on I-270 when he stopped to help FBI Special Agent Carlos Wolff, whose personal vehicle was disabled in the travel lane.  Cohen activated his emergency flashers to safeguard the scene and both men were standing on the shoulder of the fast lane, according to a news release.

The investigation found that a 2000 Honda Accord, driven by Garza Palacios, swerved to the left of the stopped vehicles. The Honda struck both men as they stood on the highway shoulder. Both victims were thrown over the jersey wall to the northbound side of I-270.

Korionoff said there wasn’t enough evidence to charge Palacios with criminal negligence.

About Mitti Hicks

Mitti Hicks is a multimedia journalist and community engagement specialist with Montgomery Community Media. She is passionate about telling stories that impact our community and may be reached at MHicks@mymcmedia.org and on Twitter @mittimegan.

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