Investigtion into Fatal Crash at 17100 Tomball Parkway

Houston police are investigating a fatal hit and run crash in the 17100 block of Tomball Parkway (State Highway 249) that occurred about 1:15 a.m. on Sunday (November 16).
The deceased male is identified as Randal Knerl, 66.
HPD Vehicular Crimes Division Sergeant M. Barrow and Officer C. Brothers reported:
A crashed red Indian motorcycle was found in the middle of the freeway with its unresponsive male operator nearby. Houston Fire Department paramedics pronounced the male, later identified as Mr. Knerl, deceased at the scene.
Officers located a Cat excavator a short distance south of the crash scene. It was off the roadway with damage to its rear, that appeared to be consistent with damage and debris at the crash scene. The excavator was left running and unoccupied.
Preliminary investigation indicates the Cat excavator was riding in the middle of the roadway when the motorcycle made contact with it. The operator of the excavator fled the scene.
Anyone with information about the identity of the Cat excavator’s operator or in this case is urged to contact the HPD Hit and Run Unit at Unit at 713-247-4065 or speak anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 713-222-TIPS.
 
SOA/JKS   11-17-25
Inc. #150216825-R