x
Breaking News
More () »

Search underway for Dodge Challenger driver after deadly drag race in Channelview, deputies say

Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez identified the victim as Juan Carlos Montanez. Deputies say they are still searching for the second vehicle involved.

CHANNELVIEW, Texas — Harris County Sheriff's deputies are still investigating a possible deadly drag race in Channelview on Sunday.

Sheriff Ed Gonzalez identified 18-year-old Juan Carlos Montanez as the person who died after deputies say his car hit a curb and rolled over.

Investigators say the race likely occurred in the 1400 block of Dell Dale Street. Investigators say the Montanez's car hit the curb of the center median, causing him to lose control and roll his vehicle over. Montanez's 20-year-old sister who was in the passenger seat was not hurt.

On Monday, a small memorial grew in Montanez's memory. Friends came by to leave tributes but said the tragedy was too emotional to discuss.

The crash happened around 2:15 a.m. Sunday when deputies say he was possibly attempting to race another vehicle. HCSO says it is searching for the driver of a dark-colored Dodge Challenger for questioning about the race that occurred.

Neighbors recall rushing to help the victims after the crash took place.

"I hear a young woman screaming for help. She was in distress and my family...they tell me there's a car crash. I go out and see how the car is, completely demolished," Estephany Martinez told KHOU.

It's not clear how fast Montanez was driving. The other driver of the Challenger left the scene.

The Sheriff's Office is asking anyone who lives in the area to review their surveillance cameras around 2:15 a.m. Sunday to look for possible footage.

The family has posted a GoFundMe page to raise money for funeral expenses.

Before You Leave, Check This Out