Victoria Police Upgrade Charge in Fatal Three-Vehicle Crash
Authorities elevated a previous intoxication assault charge to intoxication manslaughter following a recent death.
Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Crime — General
Laquanda Callis died on October 27, 2026, following injuries from a three-vehicle collision that occurred on August 12 in Victoria. Following her death, police upgraded the charges against the driver of the pickup, Xavier Cantu, to include intoxication manslaughter.
Why it matters
The death of Laquanda Callis prompted authorities to heighten the legal severity of the charges against Xavier Cantu. The transition from intoxication assault to intoxication manslaughter reflects the upgraded penalty classification under state law following the fatality.
Intoxication manslaughter is a second-degree felony in Texas, punishable by two to 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $10,000. Xavier Cantu is expected to face a total of two counts of intoxication manslaughter and one count of intoxication assault.
The players
Laquanda Callis
The 44-year-old victim died following injuries sustained in the August collision.
Xavier Cantu
The 22-year-old driver faces upgraded charges for his role in the crash.
Terrence Cubit
The 26-year-old victim of the crash died at the scene of the collision.
Gary Bennett
The 72-year-old was the driver of the third vehicle involved in the accident.
The details
The August 12 crash occurred at Sam Houston Drive and Lilac Lane when Xavier Cantu drove a pickup into an SUV, which then struck a utility pole. Cantu subsequently veered into oncoming traffic, striking a second pickup driven by Gary Bennett; Terrence Cubit died at the scene, and a 12-year-old girl was also involved as an SUV passenger.
Timeline
August 12, 2026: The three-vehicle collision occurred at Sam Houston Drive and Lilac Lane.
October 27, 2026: Laquanda Callis died from injuries sustained in the crash.
Legal Context
This case follows the state's sentencing framework for intoxication manslaughter, which is classified as a second-degree felony under the Texas Penal Code. Such charges are consistently applied when a driver is accused of causing a fatality while operating a vehicle under the influence.
The collision occurred in the 3800 block of Sam Houston Drive, a key thoroughfare for local drivers. While the investigation remains ongoing, residents are advised to exercise caution near this intersection as local agencies conclude their processing of the scene.
The takeaway
This incident serves as a reminder of the severe legal consequences for drivers involved in fatal traffic collisions. Those impacted by the safety of the local roadway should prioritize caution near the intersection of Sam Houston Drive and Lilac Lane.
Further reading
For more information on legal proceedings, visit the Crime — General section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Victoria Advocate.
