KATY, TX – A 20-year-old Texas man faces a felony intoxication manslaughter charge after allegedly causing a violent crash that killed a local driver early Tuesday morning.
Fatal Collision in Katy
The incident occurred just after 2:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 23, in Katy. According to the Fort Bend County Sheriff’s Office, a white BMW driven by Dejon Fortune collided with a black Cadillac operated by Sung Bae, 53.
The impact of the crash forced Bae’s vehicle off the roadway, where it struck a light pole and two trees. Authorities confirmed that Bae was pronounced deceased at the scene.
Birthday Celebration and Speed Factors
According to a probable cause affidavit, Fortune was celebrating his 20th birthday in the hours leading up to the crash and admitted to consuming alcoholic beverages.
Passengers inside Fortune’s vehicle provided critical details to investigators:
- One passenger estimated the BMW was traveling between 70 and 80 miles per hour at the time of the collision.
- Another passenger allegedly admitted to removing alcohol from the vehicle immediately following the crash.
Fortune reportedly told police he could not recall when he had his last drink before getting behind the wheel.
Community Impact and Statements
The vehicle Fortune was operating allegedly belonged to his father. As of airtime, it remains unclear if Fortune has entered a legal plea.
Fort Bend County Sheriff Eric Fagan released a statement addressing the tragedy:
“Impaired driving continues to claim innocent lives in our community. We urge everyone to make responsible choices and never get behind the wheel while under the influence.”
