News Update: Cement truck driver charged for deadly Bastrop wreck 

BASTROP, TX – A cement truck driver who was responsible for striking a school bus that led to the death of a five-year-old boy and one other person has been charged with negligent homicide. 

News4SanAntonio confirmed this new detail Monday, indicating the cement truck driver, who has been identified as Jerry Hernandez, was suspected by authorities to have used narcotics prior to operating the truck. In addition, officials told the source that they believe Hernandez’s lack of sleep and a long day on the job could have also played a role in his ability to safely and effectively drive the truck. 

To recap, this crash happened around 2 p.m. on Friday, March 22nd, on State Highway 21. The 44 students and teacher, all from Tom Green Elementary School, were on their way to the school after a field trip at the Capital of Texas Zoo. After the vehicles made contact, a five-year-old boy (whose name will not be mentioned due to his status as a minor) and 33-year-old Ryan Wallace, driving a Hyundai Tucson, passed away. 

All the other students were hospitalized, and authorities mentioned that the bus driver was last recovering from his injuries. 

Hernadez also has a past of prior failed drug tests, and the source also said that court documents revealed that he was not allowed to drive a commercial vehicle at the time of the collision. 

 As wrongful death lawyers, we know that dealing with the tragic loss of your loved one and trying to move forward during this difficult time can feel overwhelming. We extend our deepest condolences and would like to offer our legal support. While the pursuit of a claim or wrongful death lawsuit cannot erase what occurred, the money you receive could pave the way for financial stability and help with funeral and burial costs. We’re ready to walk you through your next steps and invite you to reach out to TK Injury Lawyers at any time to arrange a free consultation by phone at (512) 582-2398 or online.