TABC investigating Skooners after fatal crash in Central Lubbock

LUBBOCK, Texas (KCBD) - Chris Porter with the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission has confirmed with KCBD an investigation has been opened with Skooners Grill and Bar to determine whether alcohol played a role and whether any alcohol was improperly sold or served to anyone involved in the crash.

TABC opened its investigation shortly after the fatal crash took place Jan. 16.

In these investigations, agents seek to determine whether alcohol played a role and whether any alcohol was improperly sold or served to any persons involved in the crash.

Under Texas law, businesses licensed by TABC are prohibited from selling alcohol to anyone showing signs of intoxication, and violations could result in a fine or a temporary suspension of their license to sell alcohol

The Major Crash Investigation Unit is investigating a fatal crash that occurred at approximately 2:15 a.m. Jan. 16 in the 2400 block of the Marsha Sharp Freeway eastbound access road.

An SUV, driven by 30-year-old Gabriel Zerrata, was traveling northbound in the 400 block of University Avenue and a passenger car, driven by 19-year-old Jessica Helmers, was traveling eastbound in the 2500 block of Marsha Sharp Freeway along the eastbound access road.

The two vehicles collided in the intersection of University Avenue and the access road.

Zerrata was transported by EMS to University Medical Center with moderate injuries. Helmers was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Zerrata told police he was drinking at “skooners” bar in Lubbock that night.

The Major Crash investigation is ongoing.

Texas Tech has lowered the school flag on campus to half staff in honor of the student killed in the crash.

Copyright 2021 KCBD. All rights reserved.