A late Saturday night crash along Highway 361 on Mustang Island left one person hospitalized and caused significant traffic delays for drivers heading into Port Aransas. Authorities say the collision involved a Jeep and a Tesla and resulted in the arrest of one driver on suspicion of driving while intoxicated (DWI).
The incident occurred during a busy evening on the coastal roadway, a key route for residents and visitors traveling between Corpus Christi and Port Aransas.
Crash Reported Along Busy Highway 361
According to Port Aransas police, the crash happened shortly after 7 p.m. Saturday near Access Road 1A on Highway 361. Investigators say a Jeep traveling northbound collided with a Tesla, triggering a response from local emergency crews.
Authorities quickly arrived at the scene to assist those involved and secure the roadway. Meanwhile, first responders assessed the condition of passengers in both vehicles and worked to stabilize the situation.
Highway 361 serves as a major corridor connecting Mustang Island to surrounding coastal communities. As a result, the crash quickly led to traffic congestion in the area.
Passenger Thrown From Jeep During Collision
Police reported that the crash ejected a 22-year-old front-seat passenger from the Jeep during the impact. Emergency medical teams transported the injured passenger to a hospital in Corpus Christi for treatment.
At this time, officials have not released details regarding the severity of the passenger’s injuries. However, authorities confirmed that the individual required immediate medical attention following the crash.
Vehicle ejections during collisions often indicate a high-impact crash, and investigators typically review several factors, including seatbelt usage, vehicle speed, and road conditions.
Emergency Crews Respond Quickly
Multiple emergency responders worked at the crash scene to manage the aftermath of the collision. Their efforts included assisting victims, directing traffic, and clearing damaged vehicles from the roadway.
As emergency personnel conducted their investigation, portions of Highway 361 experienced heavy traffic delays. Drivers traveling between Cinnamon Shore and Access Road 1A encountered significant slowdowns while crews worked to restore normal traffic flow.
By late in the evening, authorities had cleared the crash site and reopened the roadway.
Traffic Delays Affect Drivers Heading to Port Aransas
Because Highway 361 is one of the primary access routes to Port Aransas, the crash created a noticeable backup for drivers heading toward the island community.
Emergency vehicles blocking parts of the roadway forced visitors and residents traveling through Mustang Island to slow down or temporarily stop.
Traffic congestion extended between Cinnamon Shore and Access Road 1A while crews handled the crash response. Local officials advised motorists to remain patient and cautious in the area until crews fully cleared the road.
Incidents along Highway 361 can quickly affect travel conditions due to limited alternate routes on Mustang Island.
Driver Arrested on Suspicion of DWI
The Texas Department of Public Safety later confirmed that troopers arrested the driver suspected of causing on suspicion of driving while intoxicated in connection with the crash.
Police usually file DWI charges when they determine that a driver operates a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or other substances. Officials have not shared more information about the driver or said whether prosecutors will file additional charges. The investigation is still ongoing while officials review evidence from the crash scene.
Ongoing Investigation
Law enforcement agencies will continue to examine several factors related to the collision, including vehicle positioning, witness statements, and possible impairment.
Officials have not yet released the names of those involved in the crash. Additional information may become available once the investigation is complete.
Meanwhile, authorities continue reminding drivers to prioritize safe driving practices, particularly on busy coastal highways where traffic conditions can change quickly.
Road Safety Reminder for Coastal Drivers
Crashes on major routes, such as Highway 361, highlight the importance of responsible driving, especially in high-traffic tourist areas like Mustang Island and Port Aransas.
Law enforcement officials urge motorists to avoid impaired driving, obey speed limits, and remain alert while traveling through coastal communities.
As tourism continues to bring large numbers of visitors to the region, safety officials say responsible driving remains essential to preventing serious accidents and protecting everyone on the road.