A Milam County Deputy Sheriff, involved in a May 2 collision in Cameron which took the life of a Cameron pastor and community leader, was arrested Thursday.
Michael Dean Heath, 42, of Temple, was charged with criminal negligent homicide. He was released after posting $15,000 bond.
Heath had been indicted June 21 by a Milam County Grand Jury in connection with the collision which took the life of 70-year-old Earnest Taylor Sr. and injured Taylor’s wife, Shirley, age 75.
PROBE—Sheriff Chris White told The Reporter that the sheriff’s department cannot comment beyond confirming that Heath is still employed by the department.
Heath is covered by the Workers Comp/Family and Medical Leave Act, White said.
Sheriff White said the department continues to address the issue under advice from its attorneys.
FATALITY—Heath was driving a patrol SUV when the collision occurred on Fourth Street (US 190/Texas
36) near Cameron’s Milam Plaza shopping center.
Taylor, was pronounced dead at the scene. Shirley Taylor—was treated for serious injuries at Baylor Scott & White in Temple following the collision.
Heath underwent several surgeries. It was also discovered the deputy has kidney cancer and is being treated for that illness.
The Department of Public Safety (DPS) is investigating the incident.
DPS Sgt. Dave Roberts said because the incident involved a government vehicle, a team of troopers with special training are investigating the incident.
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