Driver arrested in Woodlands fatal bike hit-and-run

The Woodlands Man Arrested in Fatal Hit-and-Run of Cyclist on Lake Woodlands Drive

**THE WOODLANDS, TX – January 21, 2024** – Authorities in Montgomery County have made an arrest in connection with the fatal hit-and-run crash that claimed the life of a bicyclist earlier this week on Lake Woodlands Drive. Christopher James Young, 41, a resident of The Woodlands, was taken into custody on Friday, January 19, 2024, and faces a felony charge of “Accident Involving Death.”

The tragic incident occurred early Wednesday morning, January 17, 2024, around 6:30 AM, near the intersection of Lake Woodlands Drive and East Panther Creek Drive. According to officials, Young was allegedly driving a 2017 grey Toyota Tundra pickup when he struck 50-year-old Michael R. Brown, also a resident of The Woodlands, who was riding his bicycle. Young reportedly fled the scene following the collision, leaving Brown, who was found deceased at the location.

The investigation was swiftly launched by detectives with the Montgomery County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Division. Utilizing various investigative techniques, including witness statements, surveillance footage, and forensic analysis, investigators were able to identify the suspect vehicle. The damaged 2017 grey Toyota Tundra pickup, showing evidence consistent with the crash, was subsequently located in The Woodlands.

“Our investigators worked tirelessly from the moment the call came in,” stated Lieutenant Scott Spencer with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. “The swift identification and arrest in this case demonstrate our commitment to holding accountable those who disregard the safety of our community members, especially when it involves such a callous act as fleeing the scene of a fatal crash.”

Young was arrested by the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office in The Woodlands on Friday and was booked into the Montgomery County Jail. His bond has been set at $150,000. Under Texas law, “Accident Involving Death” is a second-degree felony, carrying a potential sentence of two to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000.

Michael R. Brown was a well-known and respected member of The Woodlands community, described by friends and family as an avid cyclist and dedicated family man. He was reportedly on his regular morning ride when the incident occurred. His passing has sent shockwaves through the local cycling community, prompting renewed calls for increased safety measures for bicyclists on the area’s roads.

Lake Woodlands Drive is a heavily traveled thoroughfare, popular with both commuters and recreational cyclists. Advocacy groups like Bike The Woodlands have frequently highlighted the need for greater awareness from motorists and improved infrastructure for cyclists to prevent such tragedies.

“This is a heartbreaking loss for our community,” said a representative from Bike The Woodlands. “Our thoughts are with Michael Brown’s family. We implore all drivers to share the road responsibly and be vigilant, especially during early morning hours when visibility can be challenging. Cyclists also need to ensure they are highly visible.”

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office continues its investigation. Further details regarding court dates for Young are expected to be released as the legal process moves forward.

For more information on the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, please visit their website at www.mctxsheriff.org.
For information on the Montgomery County Precinct 1 Constable’s Office, visit www.mctxconstable1.org.