Second Trial Began for San Antonio Intoxication Case
The trial of James Arthur Kearns is underway following a 2021 mistrial in the 2017 death of Karlton Walker.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Accidents
The second trial of James Arthur Kearns for intoxication manslaughter has begun in the 226th District Court. Kearns faces charges linked to the 2017 death of 50-year-old pedestrian Karlton Walker.
Why it matters
The proceedings follow a previous attempt to adjudicate the case that resulted in a mistrial in 2021. The outcome will determine legal accountability for the fatal incident that occurred in the 9600 block of San Pedro Avenue.
James Arthur Kearns, 47, is being tried for intoxication manslaughter in the 226th District Court after previously being booked into the Bexar County jail on $75,000 bail. If convicted, the defendant faces a potential sentence of two to 20 years.
The players
James Arthur Kearns
The 47-year-old defendant faces a charge of intoxication manslaughter for a fatal 2017 vehicle accident.
Karlton Walker
The 50-year-old pedestrian was killed after being struck by a vehicle in the 9600 block of San Pedro Avenue.
Benjamin Robertson
The judge is presiding over the second trial of James Arthur Kearns in the 226th District Court.
The details
Prosecutors allege the incident occurred when a vehicle driven by Kearns jumped a sidewalk, fatally striking Karlton Walker. Officers identified the vehicle involved at a nearby stoplight and a gas station parking lot shortly after the crash.
Timeline
March 14, 2017: Karlton Walker was killed in the incident.
2021: The first trial for James Arthur Kearns ended in a mistrial.
October 13, 2026: The second trial for James Arthur Kearns began.
Legal Context
The second trial marks a procedural reset following the 2021 mistrial of James Arthur Kearns, which failed to reach a conclusive jury verdict. This retrial reflects the standard judicial process in Texas for addressing cases where initial proceedings fail to achieve a unanimous jury decision.
The trial proceedings at the 226th District Court may involve local witness testimony regarding the 2017 crash on San Pedro Avenue. Residents of the area can expect periodic updates on court developments as the case reaches a final resolution.
The takeaway
The restart of this case highlights the complexities involved in securing a final judgment in criminal trials. Legal observers are closely watching the proceedings to see if this second attempt resolves the outstanding questions surrounding the 2017 incident.
Further reading
For updates on local legal proceedings, follow the San Antonio accidents coverage.
