Austin Police ID Car Passenger Who Died After Driver Struck Pole

EAST AUSTIN, TX — Police on Tuesday identified the car passenger who died after the driver of the vehicle he was in struck a telephone pole in early December.

Dominique Gaines, 29, was a passenger in a 2010 blue Hyundai traveling southbound along the 3300 block of Northeast Drive — near Manor and Springdale roads — just after midnight on Dec. 7 when the driver lost control, left the roadway and struck a telephone pole, police said in a press advisory.

Gaines was pronounced dead at the scene while the driver was taken to Dell Seton Medical Center with life-threatening injuries.

In their press advisory, police didn't indicate if the driver faces any charges as a result of the tragic incident or if the driver ultimately survived. But they did indicate the case is still being investigated. Anyone with information that might prove helpful to detectives are urged to call (512) 974-6935. Those with information also can submit tips by downloading APD’s mobile app, Austin PD, for free on iPhone and Android.

This wreck marked Austin’s 69th fatal traffic crash and the 74th fatality of 2017, police noted. At this time in 2016, there were 72 fatal traffic crashes and 74 traffic fatalities, officials added.

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