Over the course of 90 days, Arlington police officers have responded to three fatal crashes, all occurring within a mile of each other on West Sublett Road. In response, the Arlington Police Department has intensified its patrol in the area to address speeding, reckless driving, and criminal activity.
“After the first fatal crash on Dec.14, we initiated a 90-day period to assess whether there has been a reduction compared to the previous 90 days,” stated Sgt. John Brown from the department’s Traffic Unit Crash Investigations division.
The tragic incidents include the death of 10-year-old Liyah-Grace Holsey, who was struck by two vehicles while attempting to cross W. Sublett Road at Park Springs Boulevard just before Christmas. Another fatality occurred about a mile east on Dec. 31, when a driver lost control of their vehicle and crashed into a fence. Then, on Feb. 13, a woman died after reportedly cutting off a pickup truck, causing her vehicle to spin out and collide with a tree on the 2300 block of W Sublett Road.
The department’s review period encompassed the five-mile stretch of W. Sublett Road.
“On West Sublett alone, we have conducted over 115 traffic stops,” Brown revealed.
However, the focal point for police intervention lies between South Bowen Road and Park Springs Boulevard to the west.
“We will deploy traffic officers, patrol officers, and other specialized units to increase their presence in that area with the aim of reducing speed, minimizing crime, and addressing calls for service,” Brown emphasized.
Regarding traffic enforcement, only 13 traffic stops have been made between the 2200 block and 3600 block of W Sublett. Many drivers were pulled over for exceeding the 40 mph speed limit.
“The average speed recorded ranges between 45 to 48 mph,” noted Brown.
While citations have been issued, Brown stressed that the primary goal is not punitive but rather to raise awareness among drivers.
“Drivers need to realize that their speeding could irreversibly alter their lives and the lives of others in a split second,” Brown cautioned. “We urge everyone to slow down, especially considering the ongoing construction in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Safety should be prioritized over speed.”
Data collected during the 90-day period will be compared with other hot spot areas, including Division Street, Collins Street, Cooper, and Green Oaks. The findings will guide decisions regarding ongoing traffic enforcement in the area or potential shifts in focus to other locations.
