Tyler HS student killed in DWI crash on Loop 323

**Tyler High Student Dies After Fatal Auto-Pedestrian Crash; Driver Charged with DWI**

TYLER, Texas – A 16-year-old Tyler High School student, Jerome "Jay" Brooks, has died following an auto-pedestrian collision early Friday morning in Tyler. The incident, which occurred on **Loop 323** near the intersection with **Texas Highway 155 (Palestine Highway)**, has led to a DWI charge for the driver involved.

Brooks was walking in the westbound lanes of **Loop 323** around 2:30 AM on Friday, February 2, 2024, when he was struck by a Honda Civic driven by Marcos Rodriguez, 23. Police reported that Rodriguez stopped at the scene and attempted to render aid.

Brooks was initially transported to a local hospital before being transferred to a hospital in **Dallas**. He tragically succumbed to his injuries on Sunday, February 4, 2024.

Rodriguez was arrested and charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI). The investigation into the full circumstances of the crash is ongoing, according to Tyler Police.

Jay Brooks was a football player for the Tyler High Lions, and his death has deeply affected the school community. Grief counselors were made available at Tyler High School for students and staff. A vigil in his honor was held on Monday evening, February 5, 2024. Brooks' coach stated that the teen was reportedly walking home from a party at the time of the incident.