SAN ANTONIO — A suspected driving while intoxicated (DWI) crash on the West Side left a 28-year-old woman and a 6-year-old girl seriously injured Wednesday night, according to the San Antonio Police Department. 

Police say the multi-vehicle collision occurred on Culebra Road northbound when a woman's vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed struck a second vehicle, sending it into oncoming traffic where it collided with a third vehicle. 

San Antonio Fire Department officials reported that three people were taken to hospital for treatment following the crash. The woman and the young girl — who were both not wearing seat belts at the time of the collision — sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries, an SAPD sergeant at the scene told KSAT. 

“This is an ongoing investigation, and we are working to determine all contributing factors,” police said in a brief statement. “At this time, suspected intoxication is being evaluated as part of the crash inquiry.” 

Investigators also noted that open alcoholic beverages were found inside the woman's vehicle. Authorities did not confirm the exact relationship between the woman and the injured child, and as of this writing no charges had yet been announced. 

The driver of the second vehicle involved in the collision did not appear to be injured, while the driver of the third vehicle sustained injuries described as not life-threatening, according to SAPD. 

DWI Crashes and Child Safety Concerns

Crashes involving suspected intoxicated drivers continue to be a serious safety issue in San Antonio. Police have increasingly stressed the dangers when alcohol and impaired driving intersect with children as passengers. 

Local enforcement and community advocates have pointed to similar incidents in recent months, including cases where suspected intoxicated drivers have injured bicyclists and other motorists on the West Side. 

Experts say the presence of children in vehicles during high-risk driving behaviors such as driving under the influence can significantly increase the potential for tragic outcomes, both in terms of physical injury and long-term trauma. The absence of seat belt use among young passengers remains a critical factor in injury severity in many crashes. 

Investigation Continues

San Antonio police say the investigation remains active and ongoing, with officers reviewing crash reports, interviewing witnesses, and gathering evidence. Police have not yet released further details regarding charges or potential arrests related to the suspected DWI. 

Authorities continue to urge motorists to avoid impaired driving, wear seat belts, and ensure that children are properly restrained in appropriate car seats or safety belts to reduce the risk of serious injury in the event of a crash.