Drug Charges Pending Against Eagle Pass Woman Who Ran Across Interstate 10

Fayette County Sheriff Keith Korenek reports an Eagle Pass woman was sent to the hospital after she ran across Interstate 10 following a traffic stop.

Korenek said Drug Interdiction Officer David Smith stopped 2007 Jeep Liberty on Interstate 10 near Flatonia for traffic violations around 12:50 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 18.

"Upon interviewing the driver, who was exhibiting extreme nervous behavior, Smith observed drug paraphernalia in plain view," Korenek's report stated.

Smith asked the woman to exit the vehicle and detained her while conducting further investigation. The female then ran across both westbound lanes of traffic before Smith was able to apprehend her.

Korenek identified the driver as 50-year-old Bernice Arista Rivera of Eagle Pass.

"(While) interviewing Rivera, she admitted having suicidal thoughts, and she was in possession of a controlled substance," Korenek said.

Flatonia Police Chief Perry Kram responded along with Flatonia Officers Pritchard and George. Fayette County EMS transported Rivera to South Austin Medical Center for medical treatment. Korenek said charges are pending against Rivera for possession of a controlled substance.