MEMPHIS, Tenn. — One person was killed and two others injured after an overnight crash in northeast Memphis.
The wreck happened in the area of Interstate 40 and Covington Pike around 10:30 p.m. Thursday.
According to the police report, Hesler Munguia was heading southbound on Covington Pike when he ran a red light, striking a 2017 Honda Accord as it was trying to turn onto the interstate.
That driver had the green arrow, authorities said.
The driver of the Honda was taken to the Regional Medical Center in critical condition, but his passenger, Scott Pugh, died on the scene.
After the crash, Munguia got out of his car and reportedly fled southbound on foot. A witness, Kevin Lambert, chased and detained the suspect until police arrived, but Lambert says three of Munguia’s friends showed up first.
“He called a ride and everything,” Lambert said. “They pulled up and grabbed him out of my arms and tried to drive off with him. So I got to tussling with all of them.”
It was three against one, but Lambert held his ground and said they all eventually gave up. He said he’s glad he could help police arrest Munguia.
“He was drunk, drunk driving, out of control, so the (victim’s) family needed closure on that,” Lambert said.
Munguia also sustained injuries during the crash. He received treatment at a local hospital and then was released into police custody.
When questioned by police, Munguia reportedly admitted to drinking prior to the crash.
He was charged with vehicular homicide while intoxicated, vehicular assault, reckless driving, public intoxication, driving without a license, leaving the scene of a deadly accident, DUI, disregarding a red light, violation of financial law and failure to exercise due care.
Scott Pugh’s family has started a GoFundMe page to raise money for his funeral service.
Video below shows passersby chasing the suspect after the deadly wreck.
