Fort Worth, Texas, January 21, 2026
An 18-year-old man, Axel Perez, was arrested following a wrong-way collision on Interstate 35W in Fort Worth, Texas, that led to the deaths of two individuals. The tragic accident, occurred around 2:08 a.m., involved Perez’s vehicle traveling southbound in the northbound lanes, resulting in the loss of Fructoso Cielo Tlatenchi, 63, and Saul Carlos Flores, 44. Perez faces two charges of intoxicated manslaughter with a vehicle while the investigation continues.
Fort Worth, Texas – 18-Year-Old Arrested in Fatal Wrong-Way Collision
Fort Worth, Texas – An 18-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a fatal wrong-way collision on Interstate 35W that resulted in the deaths of two individuals. The suspect, identified as Axel Perez, faces two charges of intoxicated manslaughter with a vehicle. As of Tuesday afternoon, no bail amount had been set.
The incident occurred early Saturday morning, around 2:08 a.m., when Perez’s vehicle was traveling southbound in the northbound lanes of I-35W near Garden Acres Drive. His car collided with another vehicle, leading to the deaths of two occupants, Fructoso Cielo Tlatenchi, 63, and Saul Carlos Flores, 44. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene from blunt force injuries.
Officers responded promptly to reports of the major accident. Perez was arrested at 4:37 a.m. on Saturday and booked into the Tarrant County jail on Sunday. The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision is ongoing, and authorities have not released further details at this time.
This tragic event highlights the dangers of impaired and wrong-way driving. The Fort Worth Police Department continues to urge drivers to exercise caution and adhere to traffic laws to prevent such incidents.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Interstate 35W near Garden Acres Drive, Fort Worth, Texas |
| Suspect | Axel Perez, 18 years old |
| Charges | Two counts of intoxicated manslaughter with a vehicle |
| Victims | Fructoso Cielo Tlatenchi, 63, and Saul Carlos Flores, 44 |
| Time of Incident | Approximately 2:08 a.m., January 17, 2026 |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing; no further details released |
Understanding the Broader Impact
This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding impaired driving within Texas and the pressing need for comprehensive solutions to address these challenges. Communities across Texas are increasingly recognizing the need to promote safe driving behaviors through education and community initiatives.
Fort Worth’s commitment to public safety can be seen in its collaboration with local organizations and law enforcement agencies aimed at reducing the incidence of driving under the influence. This tragic event reaffirms the necessity of these efforts, emphasizing the critical role that community engagement plays in fostering safer roadways.
Community Response and Initiatives
In response to the rising concerns about impaired driving, local agencies are working diligently to implement programs designed to educate the public on the dangers of driving under the influence. Such initiatives aim to create an informed citizenry that prioritizes road safety and the well-being of all travelers. Programs that promote safe transportation options, including designated driving services and public education campaigns, are crucial in mitigating the risks associated with impaired driving.
Final Thoughts
The arrest of Axel Perez brings to light the serious consequences of reckless driving behaviors and the profound impact on families and communities. As Fort Worth continues to push forward, it is essential for citizens to remain vigilant and proactive in promoting safe driving practices. Together, through education and community engagement, we can work towards a future where such tragedies are less frequent.
Readers are encouraged to engage in local discussions about road safety and support initiatives that aim to educate and protect our community members. By staying informed and involved, we can contribute positively to the fabric of Fort Worth and its commitment to safety and progress.
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