Hit-and-run severely injures San Antonio tow truck driver

The 24-year-old father of six was struck on his first day at a new job, leaving him with catastrophic injuries.

Published on Mar. 6, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Julian Ramirez, a 24-year-old tow truck driver in San Antonio, was severely injured in a hit-and-run incident while working on the side of the road during his first day at a new company. The crash left Ramirez with life-altering injuries, including a severed leg, broken bones, and brain damage. His family is pleading for information to help authorities find the driver responsible.

Why it matters

Tow truck drivers face significant risks on the job, with vehicles speeding by just feet away. This incident highlights the dangers these workers face and the need for greater awareness and safety measures to protect roadside workers. It also raises questions about hit-and-run incidents and the impact on victims and their families.

The details

Ramirez was towing a vehicle around 1:13 a.m. on February 16 along Loop 410 near Ray Ellison Drive when a light-colored sedan struck him and fled the scene. The crash left Ramirez with catastrophic injuries, including a severed right leg, broken pelvis, ribs, and skull, as well as a torn colon and brain damage. Doctors were later forced to amputate his leg to the hip. Ramirez's recovery has been slow, and he now relies on a feeding tube as he continues treatment and rehabilitation.

  • The incident occurred around 1:13 a.m. on February 16, 2026.
  • Ramirez had just started working with a new towing company and was on his unofficial first night on the job.

The players

Julian Ramirez

A 24-year-old tow truck driver in San Antonio who was severely injured in a hit-and-run incident while working on the side of the road.

Brandy Salinas

Ramirez's mother, who says the extent of her son's injuries shocked the family when they arrived at the hospital.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We came into this blindsided as far as how bad he was and how severe everything was going.”

— Brandy Salinas, Ramirez's mother (kens5.com)

“Julian is very hard-headed and stubborn. We have no doubt he's going to get through this because he has that fight in him. He has too much to live for.”

— Brandy Salinas, Ramirez's mother (kens5.com)

What’s next

Investigators have spoken with at least two witnesses and are working to get clearer visuals of the suspect vehicle. They believe the car involved likely sustained significant damage and are urging anyone in the area with information to come forward.

The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the risks tow truck drivers face on the job and the devastating impact hit-and-run crashes can have on victims and their families. It highlights the need for greater awareness, safety measures, and accountability to protect roadside workers and bring justice to those affected by such senseless acts.