News Summary
Dallas police have arrested Jose Hernandez De Leon in connection with the fatal hit-and-run of Texas Tech graduate Seth Rains. Rains was struck while walking home from a concert, and De Leon allegedly attempted to cover up his involvement. Surveillance footage contradicted his story, leading to the charges of collision involving death. The Rains family expresses relief at the arrest, highlighting the impact of this tragedy. De Leon has a history of criminal offenses and is currently out on bail. The case raises awareness about reckless driving and its consequences.
Dallas Police Arrest Suspect in Fatal Hit-and-Run of Texas Tech Graduate Seth Rains
Dallas police have arrested Jose Hernandez De Leon, 31, in connection with the fatal hit-and-run of 23-year-old Seth Rains. The incident occurred in the early hours of July 27, 2025, shortly after 2:40 a.m., in the Dallas Design District. Rains, a Texas Tech University graduate, was walking home with friends after attending a concert when he was struck by a vehicle that sped through a crosswalk.
Investigators allege that De Leon has been charged with collision involving death, a second-degree felony, as he attempted to cover up his involvement in the crash. Following the incident, De Leon allegedly fled the scene and later called 911, claiming his vehicle—a black Lexus—had been stolen from a nearby nightclub. However, surveillance footage contradicted his account, as it showed him driving the Lexus before and after the collision.
The crash has had a profound impact on Rains’ family. His parents, Cyndi and Clint Rains, expressed relief at the arrest, stating it provided a sense of justice for their son. Clint Rains emphasized the importance of holding the driver accountable for his actions, highlighting their ongoing struggle with the loss of their son, who had recently started a new job in Austin.
Details of the Incident
According to reports, Seth Rains was walking with friends when he was struck at the intersection of Market Center and Turtle Creek boulevards. Video evidence from nearby surveillance cameras helped authorities identify De Leon as the driver involved in the fatal incident. A broken mirror found at the crime scene was linked back to De Leon’s Lexus, strengthening the case against him.
In addition to the charges related to Rains’ death, De Leon has a history of criminal offenses dating back to 2013, which includes multiple instances of driving while intoxicated and operating a vehicle with a suspended license. His bond has been set at $50,000.
Community Response and Family’s Struggle
The tragic loss of Seth Rains has sparked an outpouring of support from friends and neighbors. Cyndi Rains acknowledged the love and encouragement they received during such a challenging time. Despite this support, the family understands that nothing can replace the light that Seth brought into their lives.
As Rains’ family continues to navigate their grief, they are relying heavily on their faith and the community’s support. Seth Rains was a graduate of Summit High School in Mansfield and graduated from Texas Tech University. His untimely death leaves a void and brings attention to the dangers of reckless driving.
In conclusion, the arrest of Jose Hernandez De Leon marks a significant step towards justice for Seth Rains and his family. As the case moves forward, the Rains family hopes for accountability and healing in the face of their devastating loss.
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Additional Resources
- CBS News: Dallas Police Arrest Suspect in Fatal Hit-and-Run of Seth Rains
- Wikipedia: Hit-and-run
- Fox 4 News: Suspect Arrested in Seth Rains Hit-and-Run
- Google Search: Seth Rains hit-and-run
- NBC DFW: Arrest Made in Fatal Dallas Hit-and-Run
- Google Scholar: Hit-and-run accidents
- WFAA: Dallas Family Mourns 6-Year-Old Killed in Hit-and-Run
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hit-and-run
- CBS News: Dallas Police Hit-and-Run Arrest

Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
DALLAS STAFF WRITER The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.