Fatal Traffic Accident at 7100 Gulf Freeway

October 20, 2009 - Houston police are investigating a fatal traffic accident in the 7100 block of the Gulf Freeway (Interstate Highway 45 South) about 10:40 p.m. on Monday (Oct. 19).

The female victim, Ashley Vassel-Stephens, 25, was pronounced dead at the scene.

HPD Vehicular Crimes Division Sergeant S. R. Sorge and Officer J. Gaona reported:

According to witnesses, the driver of a Honda Prelude was traveling southbound on the Gulf Freeway when he made a lane change near the 610 Loop exit ramp (Interstate Highway 610) and struck a Nissan Pathfinder, causing it to roll several times. Ms. Vassel-Stephens, an occupant of the Pathfinder, was ejected from the vehicle. Two other occupants, a female and male, were transported to Ben Taub General Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. The driver of the prelude was questioned and released at the scene.

The investigation is continuing.

JKS/VHS
Inc. #152795109

For additional information, please contact the HPD Public Affairs Division at 713-308-3200 .