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Former Texas Prosecutor Charged Felony After Houston Crash

5/23/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Former Southern District of Texas prosecutor Jennifer Bess Lowery was charged with felony failure to stop and render aid after a May 14 Houston crash.
Surveillance video showed Lowery’s sedan stayed two and a half minutes while Gabriel Fonseca said he called 911, couldn’t open his door, and accused her of driving away.
Attorney Doug Murphy said Lowery believed the other driver left, while husband Matthew Willis refused the police statement.

History

Historical Context

In 1995 the Texas Legislature enacted a vehicle-related felony statute after a Houston crash that led the Texas Department of Insurance to negotiate a $2.5 million settlement. The law now underpins the felony charge against prosecutor Jennifer Bess Lowery, whose video shows her sedan idling for two and a half minutes while Gabriel Fonseca called 911.

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Story summary

Former Southern District of Texas prosecutor Jennifer Bess Lowery was charged with felony failure to stop and render aid after a May 14 Houston crash.
Surveillance video showed Lowery’s sedan stayed two and a half minutes while Gabriel Fonseca said he called 911, couldn’t open his door, and accused her of driving away.
Attorney Doug Murphy said Lowery believed the other driver left, while husband Matthew Willis refused the police statement.

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