An internal investigation is underway at the Dallas Police Department over the actions of two officers at the scene of a pedestrian fatality earlier this month.
The two officers, who have not been publicly identified, are on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.
The pedestrian, Atianna Washington, was struck and killed by a vehicle in the 2500 block of Northwest Highway at about 1 a.m. on March 15. The victim was transported to the hospital, where she later died. The police reports indicated that the scene of the incident was poorly lit, and there were no crosswalks at that location.
The driver of the vehicle was reportedly the girlfriend of Dallas Police Association President Jaime Castro, and Castro was sitting in the passenger seat at the time of the incident, according to WFAA.
The officers working the scene said they did not believe the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs, so they did not administer a breathalyzer test or ask the driver if she had been drinking, sources told the news outlet.
The investigation is specifically probing whether Castro’s presence influenced the officers’ decisions in handling the case.
Officers are not required to test a driver for drugs or alcohol unless they suspect the person is impaired.
“The loss of a life in this accident was tragic, and deepest condolences go out to the family. Accident investigators received full cooperation during all phases of the investigation, and it is fully expected that the department’s review will determine that all procedures and protocols were followed in a professional manner,” John Snider, Castro’s attorney, told WFAA.
Washington’s mother, Mindi Crapo, expressed appreciation for the internal investigation.
“She was beautiful and full of life,” Crapo said of her daughter, per WFAA. “I pray that the Dallas Police Department conducts a complete and fair investigation into her death. I thank Chief Igo for launching an investigation.”
Just last month, interim Police Chief Michael Igo announced a review of the DPD’s Internal Affairs division, which revealed”crucial shortcomings” in the way officer misconduct allegations are handled. The findings led the department to implement improvements in 17 key areas. Igo said the assessment is part of an ongoing effort to enhance transparency and accountability within the DPD.