Hit and Run Suspect Faces Enhanced Charges
Posted/updated on: July 20, 2013 at 4:16 pmTYLER A 25-year-old Tyler man faces enhanced charges following a major wreck. Police responded to WSW Loop 323 and Jacksonville Highway around 12:15 Thursday afternoon on a report of a multiple car crash in the intersection. The driver who allegedly caused the crash was later identified as Daniel Massad. Police say Massad was driving a Dodge pickup eastbound on Loop 323 when he ran a red light at Jacksonville Highway, striking a vehicle in the intersection. Massad also struck a second vehicle waiting in traffic after the first impact, according to police.
Authorities report Massad fled the scene on foot into a nearby industrial park area. Officers set up a perimeter and located him exiting a heavy brush area 30 minutes after the crash, according to police. Massad was placed under arrest for hit and run, evading arrest, and possession of a controlled substance (meth) that police say was located in his vehicle. Police say there were no serious injuries in the wreck and no one was transported to a hospital. Smith County judicial records show Massad has a lengthy history with local law enforcement, dating to 2007.
Witnesses reported seeing Massad fleeing the scene carrying a backpack. He did not have the backpack at the time of his arrest. The area where he fled was very overgrown with thick, deep vegetation. After a lengthy search, officers located the backpack hidden under some vegetation. Among the items inside were two cellophane baggies containing a total of 4.2 ounces of crystal methamphetamine. Massads drug charge was enhanced to manufacture or delivering a controlled substance. He was also charged with tampering with evidence for allegedly attempting to conceal the backpack.