What started as a hit and run in Arlington turned deadly when 27-year-old Thomas Lester Harper fled the scene, caused a separate eight-vehicle accident, and gunned down a Good Samaritan.
18-year-old Clarence Robinson and 47-year-old Najee Nasir lost their lives.
Details about the accident itself can be found on WFAA’s website. As a summary, Thomas Harper’s blue Cadillac Escalade was involved in a small accident on North Collins Street in Arlington. Thomas fled the scene driving at speeds close to 100 mph, according to one witness. As he approached the intersection of Collins and Brown Boulevard, his Escalade rear ended the pick up truck being driven by Najee Nasir. The force of the impact killed Najee.
The wreck caused a chain reaction that involved a total of eight vehicles. Several people came to help, including Clarence Robinson. As Clarence approached the Escalade to help Thomas’ kids (who were in the backseat), Thomas pulled a gun and shot him dead. Thomas was taken into custody by Arlington police and faces charges that include murder, intoxication manslaughter and two counts of child abandonment and endangerment.
The horrific accident has left two families shocked and mourning. Najee’s mother, Idastean Winston, spoke to WFAA about her son, calling the accident that took his life a “senseless act.” Friends and family Clarence have been gathering and sharing memories of the young man. His heart to serve people – even those he didn’t even know – is a recurring theme in their stories.
The world has lost two men. May their memories live on and their families find comfort.
Drive safely, Dallas
