Police ID Man Run Over During South Austin Road Rage Incident

AUSTIN, TX — Police on Tuesday identified the pedestrian who was struck and killed by a hit-and run driver over the weekend in southeast Austin, noting the man was the victim of road rage after being run over.

The incident occurred along the 5400 block of South Pleasant Valley Rd. on Saturday, May 4, at about a quarter before 11 a.m. Police arriving at the scne found Eric Walz, 33. Witnesses described Walz as unresponsive next to his vehicle before he was transported to a nearby hospital by medics. The man subsequently was declared brain dead by the following morning, police said.

A preliminary police investigation revealed the incident stemmed from road rage following examination of surveillance camera footage recorded nearby. In the viceo, Walz is seen exiting his vehicle before approaching the front of the other vehicle involved as that driver attempted to leave the scene.

Suddenly, the other driver lurched forward in accelerating, launching Walz over the hood of the vehicle before the motorist fled the scene. Officials said the other driver did not stop to render aid to Walz, who was left injured on the pavement, nor did that person report the incident to police.

Police have since located the other driver and the vehicle, a light brown Scion XB, officials said in a press advisory. An investigation into the case continues, according to police, and detectives have consulted with the district attorney's office to explore charges to be filed.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Crime Stoppers at 512-472-TIPS or text "Tip 103" and a message to CRIMES or use the new Crime Stoppers App or email APD Homicide at homicide.apd@austintexas.gov. Those submitting tips can remain anonymous, and can also contact police by downloading APD’s mobile app, Austin PD, free on iPhone and Android.