Arlington, Texas — A North Texas woman is facing serious criminal charges months after a crash that claimed the life of her young daughter, following an investigation that authorities say uncovered evidence of possible impairment behind the wheel.
The Arlington Police Department announced that 21-year-old Courtney Getz was arrested on June 16 and charged with intoxication manslaughter and possession of a controlled substance in connection with a fatal crash that occurred earlier this year.
The charges stem from a collision that left her 6-year-old daughter, Aviah Getz, critically injured before she later died from her injuries.
Fatal Crash Happened on Interstate 20
According to investigators, the crash occurred shortly after midnight on March 25 along the westbound lanes of Interstate 20 near the U.S. 287 interchange in Arlington.
Police said Getz was driving a 2014 Nissan Sentra with two children seated in the back when the vehicle allegedly rear-ended a dump truck.
Emergency crews responded to the scene and transported Getz and both children to nearby hospitals.
Authorities said Getz and the younger child suffered injuries that were not considered life-threatening. However, Aviah sustained severe injuries and later died.
The driver of the dump truck was not injured in the collision.
Investigators Examined Child Safety Restraints
As part of the investigation, officers reviewed how the children were secured inside the vehicle at the time of the crash.
According to police, investigators believe Aviah had been placed in a car seat. However, they also indicated she may have either unbuckled herself before the collision or may not have been properly restrained when the crash occurred.
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the exact circumstances surrounding her injuries.
The investigation continued for several months as officers gathered evidence and awaited laboratory results.
Police Say Evidence Led to Impairment Investigation
During a search of the vehicle following the crash, investigators reportedly recovered THC vape pens. Police said they later received information suggesting Getz may have consumed THC prior to driving.
Based on that information, authorities obtained a search warrant allowing them to collect a blood sample for testing.
According to the Arlington Police Department, laboratory results allegedly confirmed the presence of THC in Getz’s blood.
Investigators said toxicologists from the Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office reviewed the findings and concluded that the results indicated THC use within several hours of the blood draw.
“They indicated she may have been impaired and should not have been driving when the crash occurred,” police said in a statement.
Arrest Made Months After Investigation Began
Following the completion of key portions of the investigation, members of the U.S. Marshals North Texas Fugitive Task Force arrested Getz in Arlington on June 16.
She was initially booked into the Arlington City Jail before being transferred to the Tarrant County Jail.
The intoxication manslaughter charge carries significant legal consequences under Texas law because it involves a death allegedly caused while operating a vehicle under the influence.
Teen Among 8 Victims as Suspect Allegedly Mows Down Pedestrians While Fleeing Police
Court records have not yet indicated when Getz is expected to make her next court appearance.
Case Highlights Ongoing Concerns About Impaired Driving
The tragic case has drawn attention because of the loss of a young child and the allegations surrounding impairment.
Law enforcement officials continue to remind motorists that substances capable of affecting judgment, reaction time, or driving ability can pose serious risks on the roadway.
As the criminal case moves forward, prosecutors will seek to determine whether the evidence supports the charges filed against Getz, while family members continue mourning the loss of 6-year-old Aviah.
What are your thoughts on impaired driving cases involving child passengers? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.