A tragic crash between a vehicle and a pedestrian has claimed the life of a young man in Austin, leaving the community shaken just days before the end of the year. The deadly incident happened on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at approximately 5:55 p.m., during the busy evening hours when traffic is often heavy.
According to the Austin Police Department (APD), officers were called to the scene at the intersection of West Cesar Chavez Street and Walter Seaholm Drive. When police arrived, they found that a pedestrian had been struck by a motor vehicle. The intersection was secured as emergency crews worked to provide aid and begin an initial investigation.
The pedestrian was later identified as Joseph Capulong Katigbak, an Asian man born on August 28, 1990. Katigbak was rushed to a nearby hospital following the crash. Despite medical efforts, he sadly passed away the following morning due to injuries sustained in the collision. His death has added to a growing list of traffic-related fatalities in the city this year.
Police stated that the driver involved remained at the scene, cooperated fully with officers, and showed no signs of intoxication. At this time, authorities have not indicated that any charges have been filed. Investigators are still working to determine the exact circumstances that led to the crash, including factors such as speed, visibility, and pedestrian right-of-way.
The incident is officially being investigated as Austin’s 92nd fatal crash of 2025, bringing the total number of deaths on Austin roadways this year to 96. For comparison, by the same date in 2024, the city had recorded 91 fatal crashes resulting in 97 deaths. Police emphasized that these numbers are based on preliminary assessments and may change as investigations continue.
APD is asking anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has information related to the incident to come forward. Tips can be directed to APD’s Homicide Unit at 512-974-8111. Those wishing to remain anonymous can submit information through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477. As the investigation continues, loved ones and community members are left mourning the loss of Joseph Katigbak and reflecting on the ongoing dangers faced by pedestrians on Austin’s roads.
