HOUSTON, Texas – Houston police arrested an off-duty officer Tuesday afternoon for driving while intoxicated after he crashed into a METRO bus.
The collision occurred around 2:45 p.m. at Crosstimbers Street and Interstate 45 when a vehicle rear-ended the bus stopped at the intersection. Emergency crews transported two people to area hospitals, while seven bus passengers reported non-life-threatening injuries at the scene.
Sean Ratcliff, 40, faces DWI charges following the crash. Police released him on a personal bond after his arrest.
Emergency crews transported two people to area hospitals for treatment. Seven bus passengers reported non-life-threatening injuries at the scene. The impact caused moderate damage to Ratcliff’s vehicle and deployed all airbags.
Records show this marks Ratcliff’s second DWI arrest. Courts dismissed his first charge in May 2023 after he completed a pretrial diversion program. Texas Commission on Law Enforcement records show he was unemployed following the 2023 arrest. Houston Police Department rehired him in March 2024.
Houston Police Department relieved Ratcliff of duty pending an internal affairs investigation. Officials confirmed he was not on duty when the accident occurred.
Workers towed the damaged bus to a maintenance facility for repairs. Houston police continue investigating the intoxicated driving incident.
