FORT WORTH, TEXAS — A 17-year-old mother has been arrested after her 6-month-old baby was killed in a crash that police say occurred when she ran through a red light earlier this month.
Authorities with the Fort Worth Police Department confirmed that Karla Lopez was taken into custody shortly after the March 7 collision and charged with reckless injury to a child resulting in serious bodily injury.
The infant has been identified as Sebastian Reyes.
Crash at Rock Island Street and Azle Avenue
Police said the fatal crash occurred near the intersection of Rock Island Street and Azle Avenue in Fort Worth.
According to investigators:
- The driver ran a stop sign or red light.
- The vehicle collided with another car.
- The infant was unrestrained inside the vehicle.
Upon impact, Sebastian was ejected from the vehicle. Emergency responders transported the baby to a nearby hospital, where medical staff attempted life-saving measures. Despite those efforts, the infant later died from his injuries.
Officials have not publicly released details regarding the condition of the other driver involved in the collision.
Arrest and Charges
Following treatment for non-life-threatening injuries, Lopez was arrested and booked into jail.
She is currently charged with reckless injury to a child resulting in serious bodily injury under Texas law. Authorities have not stated whether additional charges may be filed as the investigation continues.
Police have also not confirmed whether Lopez has entered a plea or secured legal representation.
Texas Law on Injury to a Child
Under Texas law, reckless injury to a child can be charged when a person causes injury through an act or omission.
The statute applies to individuals 14 years of age or younger and can include:
- Direct physical contact resulting in harm.
- Engaging in conduct that creates a substantial risk of injury.
- Failing to act in a way that would prevent harm to a child.
The degree of the charge determines potential penalties.
Possible sentencing ranges include:
- State jail felony: Up to two years in state jail and/or a fine up to $10,000.
- Third-degree felony: Up to 10 years in prison and/or a fine up to $10,000.
- Second-degree felony: Up to 20 years in prison and/or a fine up to $10,000.
- First-degree felony: Up to 99 years in prison and/or a fine up to $10,000.
It remains unclear at this time what level of felony prosecutors may ultimately pursue.
Investigation Ongoing
The Fort Worth Police Department has stated that the investigation remains active. Authorities are continuing to review evidence, including crash reconstruction details and witness statements, to determine the full circumstances surrounding the collision.
No additional public statements have been issued regarding potential further charges.
Conclusion
The death of 6-month-old Sebastian Reyes has deeply impacted the Fort Worth community. As investigators continue reviewing the crash, prosecutors will determine how to proceed with the charges against the teen mother.
