White House, senators, officials offer prayers and resources after Brenham 18-wheeler crash

BRENHAM, Texas (KBTX) – Elected officials are sending their condolences and prayers to Brenham after the driver of a stolen 18-wheeler intentionally crashed into the Texas Department of Public Safety Office in Brenham Friday morning.

One person was killed and 13 people were injured in the crash, according to DPS. The suspect, 42-year-old Clenard Parker, of Chappel Hill, was denied his Commercial Drivers License on Thursday and returned Friday to cause harm. He is being held in the Washington County Jail on charges including unauthorized use of a vehicle and evading arrest or detention causing serious bodily injury.

Washington County Precinct 3 Commissioner Kirk Hanath told KBTX both the White House and Senator John Cornyn reached out to the county, offering resources amid the tragedy. Hanath’s main message from the county was to keep the people who were injured and taken to the hospital in prayers, saying the injured showed up to the office today to get a driver’s license and did not intend to have to go to the hospital.

Senator Lois Kolkhorst, who represents Brenham and Washington County, was at the press conference DPS held Friday afternoon. She emphasized prosecutors will be tough when addressing Parker’s crimes, stating this won’t be tolerated in her hometown. She released the following statement earlier Friday morning:

“Today, a horrific tragedy occurred in my hometown of Brenham where an individual driving a stolen 18-wheeler crashed through the local Department of Public Safety (DPS) office. Three individuals were life-flighted with critical injuries.  Three other patrons were transported to local hospitals in stable condition. I have been in contact with local officials as well as the Director of DPS and the Lt. Governor’s office. All resources are being deployed to assist our local first responders.  DPS reports that no staff suffered serious injury; one staffer had been trapped for a period of time inside the office. 

According to law enforcement, this appears to be an intentional, criminal act and the Texas Rangers will be leading the investigation.  This deliberate, heinous act is a reminder of the dangerous work done by our law enforcement and licensing agencies that work to provide public safety and services.  Please join me in praying for the innocent victims and their families at this time.”

Brenham Mayor Atwood Kenjura was on scene most of the day, according to the city, and spoke during the press conference.

“I want to again express my sincere gratitude to the law enforcement officers who took swift action to apprehend the suspect,” Kenjura said. “Without their efforts, I’m certain even more harm would have been done. I couldn’t be more proud of this community for all that was done today. I ask that you continue to keep the families in your thoughts and prayers as they process the loss of life and the trauma endured by those in the building today.”

Gov. Greg Abbott tweeted his support for the city and the first responders at the scene.

Cecilia and I are saddened to hear of the tragic incident at the @TxDPS office in Brenham.

Join us in praying for the Texan who passed, those injured, and their loved ones.

I thank first responders for their swift response.

Texas will bring this heinous criminal to justice.

— Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) April 12, 2024