Police Officer Frank Manuel Cantu, Jr.

Police Officer Frank Manuel Cantu, Jr.

Houston Police Department, Texas

End of Watch Thursday, March 25, 2004

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Frank Manuel Cantu, Jr.

Officer Frank Cantu was killed when his patrol car was struck by a drunk driver at the intersection of Dunlavy and West Gray Streets at 0220 hours.

The car driven by the drunk driver entered the intersection at a high rate of speed. The patrol car was struck on the rear, and left quarter panel, causing it to go airborne and land 40 feet away. Officer Cantu was extricated from the patrol car and transported to Memorial Hermann Hospital where he died a short time later.

The drunk driver refused to take a sobriety test and was charged with intoxicated manslaughter.

Officer Cantu had served with the Houston Police Department for 19 years. He is survived by his mother, father, brother, and sister.

Bio

  • Age 43
  • Tour 19 years
  • Badge Not available

Incident Details

  • Cause Vehicular assault
  • Weapon Automobile; Alcohol involved
  • Offender Charged with manslaughter

DUI, routine driving

Most Recent Reflection

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I went to high school in Sacramento California with Officer Cantu. I met with him during a Sacramento Kings basketball game in the 90s. He invited to move to Houston to become an officer with the department. My condolences to his family. I am a Forensic Counselor having worked with the Virginia Departments of Juvenile Justice & Corrections. I am now working as a psychologist with the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services working with court-ordered patients for Restoration. Rest in peace Frank.

Counselor Frank Carrillo
Virginia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Services

July 13, 2023

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