A fatal crash on December 21 in southeast Austin has been identified by police as involving 34-year-old Michael Anthony Tasso, marking the city’s 90th deadly collision of the year.
Crash Details
The incident occurred in the 4900 block of East William Cannon Drive, a stretch that lies near Meadow Lake Boulevard. The collision took place just before midnight, a time when traffic was still moving eastbound.
Officers arrived on the scene and found the driver, later identified as Tasso, dead. APD confirmed that he was pronounced deceased at the location.
Immediate Response
APD responded to the crash in the eastbound lane. The department’s initial assessment indicated that the driver was the sole occupant of the vehicle and that there were no other individuals involved.
The scene was secured promptly, and investigators began collecting evidence. APD stated that the details provided are based on the initial assessment, and the investigation is still ongoing.
Investigation Status
APD is treating the incident as a fatal crash. The department has not yet released a full report, but the preliminary information confirms the identity of the victim and the circumstances of the collision.
Investigators are working to determine the cause of the crash, which may involve factors such as vehicle condition, road conditions, or driver behavior. The investigation remains active.
Statistical Context
This crash is the 90th fatal collision in Austin for the current year. With 94 deaths reported in total, the incident contributes to the city’s ongoing efforts to address road safety.
APD’s statement highlights the growing number of fatal crashes and underscores the importance of continued public awareness and enforcement.
How to Help
Anyone who has information about the crash can assist the investigation by contacting the APD Vehicular Homicide Unit at (512) 974-8111. Individuals who wish to remain anonymous may submit tips through Capital Area Crime Stoppers at (512) 472-8477.
Providing any detail, no matter how small, can aid investigators in piecing together the events that led to the collision.
Key Takeaways
- Michael Anthony Tasso, 34, was identified as the driver who died in a crash on December 21.
- The collision occurred in the 4900 block of East William Cannon Drive near Meadow Lake Boulevard, just before midnight.
- The incident is the city’s 90th fatal crash of the year, contributing to a total of 94 deaths.
- APD is still investigating; preliminary details are available, and the investigation is ongoing.
- Tips can be submitted to APD or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
The death of Michael Tasso is a tragic reminder of the risks that can arise on Austin’s roads. As the city continues to track and investigate fatal crashes, community involvement remains essential to understanding and preventing future incidents.
