October 30, 2009

We are learning more  about both the driver and the victim of a wrong way traffic accident on the I-37 Access Road Wednesday.  Police suspect the wrong way driver, a 25 year old, was under the influence of drugs when he crested a hill and collided head on with another vehicle killing the other driver instantly.

The victim of this accident was a well known businessman in this community.  47 year old Woody Sanderfer is survived by his wife, three grown children, and 9 grand-children.  His sudden loss is having a dramatic and tragic affect on his family.  They elected a family spokesperson, and a longtime friend of Woody's, Danny Simmons to speak on their behalf.

"I don't know anyone who didn't like him," said Simmons.  " He had a heart of gold. He would do anything for any of his friends"

The accident happened Wednesday on the Access Road of I-37 near Magee.  Police suspect, 25 year old Steven Pena, was driving under the influence of heroin when he went the wrong way on the Access Road in his pickup.

Police say a witness claims Pena would go the wrong way on the Access Road all the time using it as a short cut.

Three news investigated today and learned through public records that pena didn't have a valid driver's license, and two hours prior to the fatal wreck, pena was stopped by police for going 15 miles an hour over the speed limit.  He was given two citations.

"At that point he did not have any outward signs of being under the influence." said Corpus Christi Police Captain Michael McKinney.  

Pena reportedly underwent surgery on Thursday for a broken ankle.  He is under guard held for Manslaughter.  But, police  say when a positive blood test returns the charge could change to Intoxication Manslaughter.