Suspected drunk driver kills Texas girl as family struggles to lose her

Suspected drunk driver kills Texas girl as family struggles to lose her

A Texas family is picking up the pieces after a suspected drunk driver killed their 7-year-old daughter in a devastating crash that also injured her mother.

Joel Gonzalez Chacin, 41, the alleged drunk driver accused of causing the crash that killed her, appeared in court Tuesday morning.

He was charged with intoxication manslaughter for the death of Ivory Smith, a second-grader at Klenk Elementary School in Houston.

The devastating accident also left Smith’s mother, Christina Quainoo, seriously injured.

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Joel Gonzalez Chacin, 41, the alleged drunk driver accused of causing the crash that killed her, appeared in court Tuesday morning. (Harris County Constable, Precinct 4)

Authorities confirmed to Fox News Digital that the 41-year-old man was intoxicated when he hit Christina and her young daughter on Sunday, Dec. 1 at 2:45 a.m.

Police said Chacin took photos of the accident scene “instead of helping” and then left. Police said the two victims were only minutes away from their homes.

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His bond was set at $150,000.00 in 232nd District Court.

“Please keep the family and loved ones of the minor victim in your prayers this holiday season,” Harris County Police Officer Mark Herman said in a social media post.

Ivory Smith, 7, was killed and her mother was seriously injured when authorities said a man driving drunk allegedly crashed into their car. (GoFundMe)

In a GoFundMe, the family remembered 7-year-old Ivory full of joy and light.

“Ivory brought so much light into our lives in the short time she had with us, and we will forever cherish the joy and love she gave so freely,” her family said.

“As we navigate this profound loss, we also face the difficult reality of seeking justice for Ivory,” they said.

The family said Quainoo had a long recovery process as she grappled with the devastating loss of her young daughter.

“She will have a long road to recovery and will need everyone’s support,” the GoFundMe said. “Please keep our family and our father, Keion Smith, in your prayers during this incredibly difficult time.”

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Fox News Digital has contacted the Houston Police Department for comment.