HOUSTON – A family in southeast Houston is grieving after their loved one was hit and killed by a suspected drunk driver Saturday morning.
Hector Mario Saldarriaga, 60, was riding his bike along Galveston Road when police say Crystal Reyes, 37, hit him and left the scene.
“It was a tragedy for all of us. We never expected to lose him that quickly,” Saldarriaga’s brother-in-law, Sergio Sarduy said.
Police say Reyes almost hit another patrol officer as well. That officer pulled Reyes over and determined she had been drinking. She was arrested and posted a $30,000 bond.
Sarduy says it’s been tough for the family.
“You have no idea how much pain you have created,” Sarduy said.
Saldarriaga was from Colombia and had a passion for cycling. He was a part of several bicycle groups in Houston and trained for triathlons and marathons.
“He would go everywhere he would go to Austin, Dallas wherever there was a competition that was his passion,” Sarduy said.
Sarduy says it is unfair that Reyes bonded out of jail.
“This has been going on time and time again with these criminals. I do not think it is fair for the families that are left behind and even justice for him. Why are these people getting released such a small bond,” Sarduy said.
Reyes was charged with intoxication manslaughter and failure to stop and render aid. The family says they miss Saldarriaga so much and had a message for Reyes.
“You have taken a life, a beautiful life, from this world,” Sarduy said.
Hector leaves behind 10 brothers and sisters. He was married for 13 years and had three children from his first marriage.
The family started a GoFundMe Page to help with funeral expenses. If you would like to help, click here.
A cyclist group also created GoFundMe Page to help the family. To learn more, click here.
Reyes is under house arrest and scheduled to appear in court again on July 23. Until then he must adhere to several bond conditions including not contacting or being near homes, schools or places of employment of Saldarriaga’s family. Reyes also cannot drive without the court’s permission, must surrender his passport and must remain in Harris or other nearby counties.
According to court documents, Reyes also cannot consume any form of alcohol, including food, mouthwash or medication. He also cannot use any controlled substance and must submit to GPD monitoring.