El Paso, Texas – Authorities have arrested a man they say caused a violent, fiery crash on Interstate 10 near Geronimo last week that sent three people to the hospital and destroyed a major freeway sign.
Crash Leads to Arrest and Felony Charge
According to the El Paso Police Department, Andres Rubio was arrested on Christmas Eve and charged with intoxication assault with a vehicle causing serious bodily injury. Jail records show Rubio was assigned a $75,000 bond, which he posted the same day he was taken into custody.
Police identified Rubio as the driver responsible for the crash that unfolded on Sunday night, December 21, along I-10 East near Geronimo.
What Happened on I-10 Near Geronimo
Investigators say the crash occurred at around 8:15 p.m. when a truck slammed into multiple vehicles traveling eastbound on Interstate 10. The impact caused the truck to roll off the highway, striking and knocking down a large overhead freeway sign.
After leaving the interstate, the truck landed on Gateway East, where it burst into flames, forcing authorities to shut down the roadway for several hours as crews worked to control the fire and clear debris.
Injuries Reported
Emergency responders transported three people to the hospital following the crash.
- One victim suffered serious injuries, including:
- A severe lower back injury
- A closed head injury
- A lumbar soft tissue hematoma
- Multiple abrasions
- Two other victims were treated for non-life-threatening injuries
Family members of the seriously injured victim have since launched a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical expenses and recovery-related costs.
Damage to Infrastructure and Cost Estimates
The crash caused extensive damage to state transportation infrastructure. The Texas Department of Transportation confirmed that the overhead sign bridge destroyed in the crash will need to be fully replaced…