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Jaime Castro Retires Amid Fatal Crash Investigation

Public street scene highlighting law enforcement accountability

Dallas, Texas, February 11, 2026

Jaime Castro, former president of the Dallas Police Association, has announced his retirement following an ongoing investigation into his involvement in a fatal off-duty crash. The tragic incident, which resulted in the death of 25-year-old Atianna Washington, has raised significant questions regarding accountability within the Dallas Police Department. As the investigation unfolds, community concerns regarding transparency and governance remain at the forefront, also leading to new leadership in the police association.

Dallas, Texas

Former Dallas Police Association President Jaime Castro Retires Amid Fatal Off-Duty Crash Investigation

The retirement of Jaime Castro, the former president of Dallas’ largest police union, comes at a tumultuous time as he departs amid an ongoing investigation into his alleged involvement in a tragic off-duty crash that claimed the life of a young pedestrian. Castro’s decision to retire effective January 13, 2026, has raised eyebrows due to the serious context surrounding the fatal incident, which brought about significant questions regarding accountability and oversight within the Dallas Police Department.

Having served the Dallas Police Department for 27 years, Castro was placed on administrative leave in November 2025, leading up to his retirement request. As Dallas continues to grow and evolve, the actions taken by its police force remain critical in developing community trust and enhancing public safety, especially during such investigations that have caught the community’s attention.

Background on the Incident

The fatal incident occurred on March 15, 2025, in the 2500 block of West Northwest Highway, where 25-year-old Atianna Washington tragically lost her life while crossing the street. Castro was reported to be the front-seat passenger in one of the vehicles involved in the crash. Current inquiries are focused on the identity of the driver, which remains unclear. The handling of the case by the Dallas Police Department has come under scrutiny, prompting an internal affairs investigation and the suspension of Castro and two police officers involved in the initial response. The Dallas Police Department has affirmed its commitment to integrity and accountability in managing misconduct allegations, indicating that the severity of the circumstances warrants thorough investigation.

Leadership Changes in the Dallas Police Association

In December 2025, following Castro’s leave, the Dallas Police Association conducted an election that resulted in Sean Pease being elected as the new president, garnering approximately 77% of the membership vote. This new leadership comes at a crucial time, signaling the association’s commitment to addressing the serious concerns raised by the recent incident. Pease’s leadership is expected to focus on maintaining transparency and public trust while supporting the overall accountability efforts within the police department during this ongoing investigation.

Ongoing Investigation and Community Concerns

The investigation into the fatal crash continues, generating discussions within the Dallas community regarding police accountability and transparency in law enforcement practices. The Dallas Police Department has emphasized its ongoing dedication to integrity, yet some community members and the family of the deceased have voiced their concerns regarding potential lapses in the investigatory process. As the grand jury reviews the circumstances surrounding the crash, there is heightened scrutiny on how law enforcement agencies handle such serious matters. The department is focused on ensuring that any allegations are appropriately investigated, and they remain active in addressing the community’s call for transparency in this matter.

Key Features

Feature Details
Incident Date March 15, 2025
Location 2500 block of West Northwest Highway, Dallas, Texas
Victim Atianna Washington, 25
Involved Officer Jaime Castro, 52, Senior Corporal and President of Dallas Police Association
Investigation Status Ongoing internal affairs investigation; Grand jury review
Leadership Change Sean Pease elected as new president of Dallas Police Association in December 2025

As Dallas moves forward from this incident, it highlights the importance of community engagement in fostering trust and demanding accountability from its public servants. The ongoing scrutiny and investigations will serve as a pivotal moment for both the Dallas Police Department and the community it protects.

For residents and local businesses, staying informed and involved in Dallas’ evolving landscape of public safety and leadership is crucial. Everyone has a role in ensuring a transparent and responsible governance structure that ultimately serves the greater good of the community.

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STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS 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.

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