Sr. Officer Vidal Lopez of the Houston Police Department was hit by a train while on his way to work shortly before 7 a.m. on Wednesday. The officer was in critical condition, and a long-time friend witnessed Officer Lopez and his pregnant wife touching moment; she whispered the gender of their first child to the unconscious officer.
Touching Moment
Lopez was driving his car on Fulton near Stokes Street when the incident occurred.
Lopez’s long-time friend, police officer Ray Hunt, revealed that the couple is planning a gender reveal party for their first child this Saturday. However, a tragic incident occurred, leaving Lopez in critical condition.
According to Hunt, Officer Lopez’s wife whispered the gender of their baby into his ear, which was a touching moment for the couple. He stated that they are praying for his friend’s recovery. HPD Chief Troy Finner has asked for prayers for Officer Lopez and his family, who are going through a difficult time, a source posted.
Investigation
Officer Lopez, 42, has been with the department for over two decades. Lopez was moved to Memorial Hermann Hospital in the Texas Medical Center and is currently in critical condition.
Chief Finner acknowledged the wood service of HFD Engine 30, Ambulance 30, and Medic 31 paramedics and emergency crews were praised for their outstanding work in getting Lopez to the hospital.
Lopez attempted to avoid the train by going around the railroad arms but was hit, according to information obtained from another officer on the scene. The injured officer’s vehicle was flipped over onto its side, according to a photo taken at the location. Finner stated that they needed to expand on the previously provided information.
According to the previous report, BNSF Railway workers spent hours testing the railroad crossing arms, including examining the one that was smashed to the ground in the accident. According to BNSF, the gates and lights appear to be operational at this time.
