Austin Police Department officers responded to a single-vehicle crash in the 10000 block of South IH 35 SVRD SB at approximately 9:29 p.m. on August 26, 2025. The driver, identified as Nikolus Andrew Diaz Valdez, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The incident marks Austin’s 68th fatal crash of the year, resulting in a total of 72 fatalities so far in 2025. For comparison, by this date in 2024 there had been 57 fatal crashes with 62 deaths. Authorities note that these numbers are based on initial assessments and may change as the investigation continues.
“This incident is being investigated as Austin’s 68th fatal crash of 2025, resulting in 72 fatalities. On the date of this crash in 2024, 57 fatal crashes resulted in 62 deaths. These statements are from the initial assessment of the fatal crash, and the investigation is still pending. Fatality information may change.”
Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact APD’s Vehicular Homicide Unit at 512-974-8111 or submit an anonymous tip through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program at austincrimestoppers.org or by calling 512-472-8477.
