According to news reports, the deputy fractured his vertebrae in the accident and is currently recovering at home.
January 28, 2019 – 1:30 pm: Grimes County Sheriff’s Deputy Reed Edelman was injured in an accident that took place while he was pursuing a suspect on Monday afternoon. The suspect, 34-year-old Steve Benefield, has since been arrested.
The accident took place after deputies were dispatched to a home on the 7500 block of CR 232, where Benefield was reportedly threatening his estranged wife. Benefield fled the home on a Yamaha motorcycle.
During the chase, in which Edelman and other officers pursued Benefield, the motorcycle was reportedly recorded to reach speeds of more than 130 miles per hour.
At some point it began raining heavily. Edelman lost control of his vehicle, which hydroplaned, ran off the road, overturned several times, hit a tree, and caught fire. Fortunately, Edelman was able to get out of the vehicle and get to safety. He was hospitalized with his back injury, but has since been released.
Benefield has been charged with evading arrest with a vehicle and causing serious bodily injury. He faces up to 20 years in jail and is currently being held on a $50,000 bond.
Terry Bryant is Board Certified in personal injury trial law, which means his extensive knowledge of the law has been recognized by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization, setting him apart from many other injury attorneys. The 22 years he spent as a Municipal Judge, Spring Valley Village, TX also provides him keen insight into the Texas court system. That experience also helps shape his perspective on personal injury cases and how they might resolve. This unique insight benefits his clients. [ Attorney Bio ]
