Harris County Deputy Katherine Hutson and Daughter Kacey Remembered After Fatal Crash
On the morning of November 22, 2024, a heartbreaking tragedy occurred on the Katy Freeway near Heights Boulevard, claiming the lives of Harris County Deputy Katherine Hutson and her 7-year-old daughter, Kacey. The two were struck by a drunk driver while on the job, a loss that has left a community, a law enforcement family, and loved ones grappling with sorrow. On December 5, 2024, family, friends, and fellow law enforcement officers gathered at Community of Faith near Cypress to pay their final respects to the mother and daughter, whose love and bond were evident to all who knew them.
Katherine Hutson, a 46-year-old deputy with Harris County Constable Precinct 5, had been working an extra job as a traffic controller for construction on the westbound lanes of the Katy Freeway. She was in her patrol vehicle, a white Chevrolet Impala, equipped with emergency lights, providing cover for a construction crew. Her daughter Kacey, just 7 years old, was in the car with her, joining her mother on what was supposed to be a routine workday. Tragically, their vehicle was struck from behind by a gray Mazda 3 driven by 23-year-old Omar Jose Alvarado, who was later found to be intoxicated. The force of the crash caused the Chevrolet to catch fire, and both mother and daughter were pronounced dead at the scene.
According to the Houston Police Department, the suspect, Alvarado, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a local hospital. Once discharged, he was booked into the Harris County Jail on two counts of intoxication manslaughter. A female passenger in Alvarado's vehicle, also injured in the crash, was treated for non-life-threatening injuries. The tragic loss of Deputy Hutson and her daughter has left a deep and lasting impact on all who knew them, and their deaths have sparked an outpouring of grief and support from the community.
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“Deputy Hutson and her daughter were inseparable, bringing happiness to all whose lives they touched. Their legacy will live on forever in the hearts of all who knew them. We ask that you keep their family and loved ones in your prayers through this difficult time,” said Ted Heap, Harris County Constable for Precinct 5.
The devastating incident has left the community mourning not just the loss of a dedicated law enforcement officer, but also the life of a young girl with so much ahead of her. Katherine Hutson, a dedicated member of the Volunteer Fire Department and a passionate advocate for public safety, had spent nearly two decades serving the community. She had a love for adventure, enjoying activities like fishing and photography, and she was also a member of the Eastern Star. Her colleagues described her as a compassionate and hardworking individual who put others first. She is survived by her parents, son, brother, and a loving circle of family and friends who will remember her fondly for her unwavering dedication to her family and her community.
Her daughter Kacey, who was just beginning to explore the world around her, was a spirited young girl with a love for ballet, tap dancing, and princesses. She had recently begun second grade and enjoyed spending time fishing with her grandfather. Kacey’s playful spirit and love for life will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing her. She is survived by her family, including her brother Cory, who will now have to navigate life without his mother and sister by his side.
The funeral service for Deputy Katherine Hutson and her daughter Kacey was held at Community of Faith Church in Hockley on December 5, 2024, where hundreds of mourners gathered to honor their memories and pay their respects.
As the community comes together to grieve this profound loss, the legacy of Deputy Hutson and Kacey will live on in the hearts of those who were touched by their kindness, love, and presence. The tragic loss of Deputy Hutson and Kacey has highlighted just how important it is to prevent impaired driving and the heartbreaking consequences it can have on families and communities.
Though they are gone, the love, service, and strength that Deputy Hutson and Kacey shared will continue to inspire those who knew them, and their legacy will forever be a light of hope and compassion.