Spring Break Chaos in Corpus Christi: Drunk Driving, Minors, and Fatal Crashes

Texas leads nation in fatal crashes, with DWI as a major factor, according to officials

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

During the Spring Break Enforcement Period in the Corpus Christi area from March 8th-17th, the Texas Department of Public Safety reported dozens of arrests, hundreds of crashes, and several fatal incidents involving alcohol and underage drinking. Troopers made over 1,600 traffic stops, issuing over 1,400 citations and warnings, with 20 DWI arrests and 33 cases of drivers under 21 with detectable alcohol.

Why it matters

Spring break is a high-risk time for drunk driving and underage drinking, which can have devastating consequences. The data from Corpus Christi highlights the ongoing challenges Texas faces with fatal crashes and the need for continued education and enforcement efforts to improve public safety, especially during peak travel periods.

The details

According to the Texas Department of Transportation, March had the highest number of drunk driving crashes in the state last year. During the Spring Break Enforcement Period in the Corpus Christi area, troopers responded to 393 crashes, with 25 involving alcohol and 3 involving drugs. There were also 7 fatal crashes, 3 of which involved alcohol. Troopers made 1,603 traffic stops, resulting in 1,465 citations and 1,051 warnings. Alcohol-related enforcement included 20 DWI arrests, with additional violations such as 221 minor-in-possession citations and 63 open container violations.

  • The Spring Break Enforcement Period in the Corpus Christi area was from March 8th-17th, 2025.
  • March had the highest number of drunk driving crashes in Texas last year.

The players

Texas Department of Public Safety

The state law enforcement agency responsible for enforcing traffic laws and investigating crashes in Texas.

Texas Department of Transportation

The state agency responsible for maintaining and improving the transportation infrastructure in Texas.

Sgt. Rob Mallory

A spokesperson for the Texas Department of Public Safety who commented on the importance of planning ahead and choosing a sober ride during spring break celebrations.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“In the state of Texas, we lead the nation in fatal crashes unfortunately. DWI is one of the biggest reasons we see fatal crashes. Our fatal crashes could drop significantly if people could make that plan if they are going to consume alcohol.”

— Sgt. Rob Mallory (kiiitv.com)

What’s next

Officials say the numbers highlight the importance of planning ahead and choosing a sober ride during spring break celebrations. The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This data from Corpus Christi's Spring Break period underscores the ongoing challenges Texas faces with drunk driving and underage drinking, which can have devastating consequences. It serves as a reminder for revelers to plan ahead, designate sober drivers, and make responsible choices to ensure everyone's safety during these high-risk travel times.