Arrest for Intoxication Manslaughter

TYLER — The Tyler Police Department has arrested 50-year-old Jerdene Boyd of Tyler for intoxication manslaughter in a fatal September 2 crash. Bond was set at $250,000 by Judge Jack Skeen. Police say investigators received lab results back from East Texas Medical Center that indicated Boyd tested positive for the presence of cocaine, cannabinoids, and opiates in her system.

Officials say a Nissan driven by Boyd crashed into the rear of a White Toyota Camry that was sitting in the outside traffic lane, waiting for the light to change at South Broadway and Heritage. The driver of the Toyota was deceased in the overturned vehicle when emergency personnel arrived on the scene. The driver was a 55 year old man from Plano.

Police say before the crash occurred, a Tyler Patrol Officer was conducting radar enforcement on Highway 69 South and checked Boyd’s speed at 71 mph on radar. According to police, Boyd was observed driving in a reckless manner through heavy traffic and wet road conditions prior to the crash. Police say the officer was unable to catch up to Boyd to conduct a traffic stop due to speed, distance, traffic and weather conditions.

Investigators tested the vehicle driven by Boyd for any mechanical malfunctions in the brake system. The inspector found no indication of any brake failure. According to authorities, investigators also determined that Boyd has never been issued a Texas Drivers License and had no insurance. Boyd was arrested Tuesday at 4:30 p.m., transported to the Smith County Jail, and processed.