Navasota police Sgt. Mark Butler killed in crash with wrong-way driver

NAVASOTA, Texas - A Navasota police officer was killed in crash with a wrong-way driver who had fled from police in College Station on Wednesday afternoon, officials say.

The officer was identified as Navasota Police Department Sergeant Mark Butler, 34.

Deadly incident began in College Station

What we know:

The incident began shortly after 3 p.m. Wednesday when College Station police responded to a report of a woman trying to cash a fraudulent check in the drive-thru at a bank.

When officers responded, the woman fled in a Jeep going southbound on SH 6, CSPD says.

Near FM 2154, she exited the highway and then got back on, going southbound in the northbound lanes, police say. CSPD says the officers terminated the pursuit, per policy, due to the danger.

Sgt. Mark Butler

According to Texas DPS, Sgt. Butler was traveling northbound on SH 6 in a marked Navasota police vehicle when the wrong-way Jeep crashed into him.

Texas DPS says it appears Sgt. Butler was looking for the wrong-way driver at the time of the crash.

The driver of the Jeep died at the scene. Sgt. Butler was taken to the hospital, where he passed away.

What we don't know:

The identity of the wrong-way driver has not yet been released.

What's next:

Texas DPS is leading the investigation into the crash.

Sgt. Mark Butler remembered

What we know:

Sgt. Butler had been with the Navasota Police Department since June 2021.

He previously served in the military and worked with K-9s, officials say.

What they're saying:

"We’re pretty much like a family. It’s like losing a loved one. I consider these guys and girls my kids, so I lost a son," said Chief Michael Mize of the Navasota Police Department. 

"Sergeant Mark Butler was a dedicated public servant who exemplified courage, integrity and unwavering commitment to safety and well-being of our community," Navasota City Manager Jason Weeks said. "This is a heartbreaking day for our department and our community. The City of Navasota extends its deepest condolences to Sergeant Butler's wife, family, friends and colleagues."

"His sacrifice without a doubt prevented untold innocent citizens from imminent danger from this reckless driver," the Grimes County Sheriff’s Office wrote. "May the Angelic Wings of our Patron Saint, Saint Michael, be with this brave officer as he rests in peace in the arms of our Lord."

What's next:

A candlelight vigil will be held at Navasota City Hall near the Frank Hamer Statue at 6 p.m. Thursday.

Funeral arrangements will be announced at a future date.