Austin Police ID Wheelchair-Bound Man Struck, Killed By Car

AUSTIN, TX — Police on Friday identified the wheelchair-bound man killed after being struck by a vehicle in South Austin this week.

The incident dates to Sunday, Oct. 13, just after 3:30 p.m. at the intersection of William Cannon Drive and Emerald Forest Drive. A preliminary police investigation shows that the driver of a white, 2015 Ford F250 was traveling westbound in the far right lane on William Cannon Drive as the man in a motorized wheelchair attempted to cross northbound on Emerald Forest Drive against the light in a motorized wheelchair.

The truck, which had the green light, proceeded through the intersection and struck the man police identified as 23-year-old David Tienda. The seriously injured man was transported to an area hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries three days later, police said in a press advisory.

Police noted the driver of the truck remained on the scene awaiting arrival of the police, and no charges are expected to be filed.

While police continue to investigate, they urge anyone with information to contact detectives at (512) 974-4424. Tips also can be submitted by downloading Austin PD’s free mobile app on iPhone and Android.

This is Austin’s 66th fatal traffic crash of 2019, resulting in 68 fatalities this year. At this time in 2018, police added, there were 56 fatal traffic crashes and 57 traffic fatalities.