A man was charged with intoxication manslaughter after a tragic multi-vehicle crash in Austin, Texas, on March 14, 2025. The incident resulted in the deaths of five individuals, including three adults, a child, and an infant, while several others were injured.
- Man charged with intoxication manslaughter
- Five fatalities in multi-vehicle crash
- 17 vehicles involved in the wreck
- Police investigation ongoing, details unclear
- I-35 closed for cleanup and investigation
- Eyewitness attempted to assist victims
The crash involved 17 vehicles on Interstate 35 shortly before 11:30 p.m. First responders transported 11 people to local hospitals for treatment. Authorities have identified the suspect as Solomun Weldekeal Araya, 37, who is currently in custody.
The wreck occurred late Thursday night when a total of 17 vehicles collided on I-35 near Austin. Emergency services reported that five individuals died at the scene or later at hospitals. Among the deceased were three adults and two minors—a child and an infant. In addition to those killed, eleven others sustained injuries requiring hospitalization.
Solomun Weldekeal Araya faces serious charges including five counts of intoxication manslaughter and two counts of intoxication assault. He is being held in Travis County Jail; however, it remains unclear whether he has legal representation at this time.
- Date of accident: March 14, 2025
- Location: Interstate 35, Austin, Texas
- Total vehicles involved: 17
- Fatalities: Five (three adults, one child, one infant)
- Injuries: Eleven hospitalized
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash is ongoing. Police have not released further details but described the scene as “very large and very complex.” Eyewitness accounts indicate significant chaos immediately following the collision as bystanders attempted to assist those trapped inside their vehicles.
This tragic event highlights the dangers associated with impaired driving and its devastating impact on families and communities. As investigations continue, authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to come forward.
