A San Antonio tow truck driver is battling for his life after being struck by a vehicle while working on the side of Southwest Loop 410 on February 16th. The driver of the vehicle fled the scene, leaving 24-year-old Julian Rodriguez with critical, life-altering injuries. His mother, Brandy Salinas, has publicly offered forgiveness to the driver, pleading for them to come forward as her son fights for his life.
The incident occurred around 1:15 a.m. As Rodriguez was assisting a stranded motorist, according to San Antonio Police Department (SAPD) officials. Rodriguez, who had recently started with a modern towing company and was undergoing evaluation for a permanent position, was reportedly struck by a light-colored sedan. The driver did not stop to render aid, prompting a police investigation and a desperate search for answers from Rodriguez’s family.
Extent of Injuries
The injuries sustained by Rodriguez are extensive and severe. He suffered a traumatic brain injury, described as a level three brainstem injury by his mother, raising concerns about his potential for recovery. In addition to the brain injury, Rodriguez underwent a right leg amputation at the knee and sustained a broken pelvis, broken ribs, facial fractures and a skull fracture. He also suffered a torn right colon, requiring significant medical intervention, News 4 San Antonio reported.
Search for the Driver
SAPD is currently investigating the hit-and-run, relying on witness accounts to identify the vehicle involved. Two witnesses reportedly saw the incident and described the suspect vehicle as a light-colored sedan. As of March 8, 2026, the driver remains at large. Police have not released further details about the vehicle or potential leads in the case.
Rodriguez, a father of six, often shared videos on TikTok documenting the dangers of his profession, frequently reminding drivers to slow down and move over for roadside workers. KENS 5 highlighted these videos, underscoring the risks faced by those working on the side of the road.
Family’s Plea and Support
Despite the unimaginable pain and uncertainty, Brandy Salinas has publicly expressed forgiveness towards the driver who struck her son. “I forgive them,” she stated, appealing for the driver to come forward. The family is focusing on supporting Rodriguez through his recovery, which is expected to be long and arduous.
The incident has sparked renewed calls for driver awareness and adherence to “slow down and move over” laws, designed to protect emergency personnel and roadside workers. Tow truck driver jobs in San Antonio, TX currently offer competitive pay, ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 per year, with top earners exceeding $100,000, according to Indeed. However, the risks associated with the job are now tragically apparent.
As of March 8, 2026, Julian Rodriguez remains hospitalized, and the investigation into the hit-and-run continues. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact the San Antonio Police Department. The focus remains on identifying the driver and bringing them to justice, while the Rodriguez family hopes for a miracle and continues to offer unwavering support to their son.
What comes next will depend on the SAPD’s investigation and any potential leads that emerge. The community is encouraged to share any information they may have and to keep the Rodriguez family in their thoughts.
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