HOT NEWS: A driver using his phone and failing to stop at a red light hit a 81-year-old man who was out with his family in Houston, and when emergency crews arrived, they discovered it was the father of NFL Legend Tom Brady…

In a shocking incident that has reverberated across both the sports and public safety communities, an 81-year-old man struck by a distracted driver in Houston on Tuesday afternoon has been identified as the father of NFL legend Tom Brady.

The accident occurred shortly after 1:30 PM at the intersection of Westheimer Road and Greenridge Drive. According to Houston Police Department (HPD) officials, a driver operating a silver Honda Civic failed to stop at a red light while allegedly using his mobile phone. The vehicle struck an elderly pedestrian who was crossing the street with several family members.

Witnesses reported that the impact was severe, sending the man several feet before he landed on the asphalt. “It was horrifying,” said Maria Lopez, a nearby shop owner who witnessed the crash. “We heard screeching tires, then a loud thud. People started screaming immediately.”

Emergency crews arrived within minutes and began providing medical assistance. Paramedics quickly identified the victim as Thomas Brady Sr., father of seven-time Super Bowl champion Tom Brady. The revelation came as a shock not only to bystanders but also to responders, many of whom recognized the name instantly.

Thomas Brady Sr. was transported to Houston Methodist Hospital, where he remains in critical but stable condition, according to a statement from the Brady family released late Tuesday evening.

The family expressed gratitude to first responders and hospital staff, stating:

“Our father, Tom Sr., is a fighter and surrounded by family. We are grateful for the rapid response of Houston emergency personnel and the outpouring of support from across the country.”

Tom Brady himself, currently retired from the NFL and working as a broadcaster, has reportedly flown to Houston to be at his father’s side.

The 24-year-old driver, whose name has not yet been released, was detained at the scene and is currently under investigation. HPD stated that preliminary evidence shows the driver was actively using his phone at the time of the incident, violating both state and city laws regarding distracted driving.

HPD Chief Troy Finner addressed the media Tuesday evening:

“This is a painful reminder of the dangers of distracted driving. One careless moment behind the wheel can destroy multiple lives. Our thoughts are with the Brady family during this incredibly difficult time.”

Local officials confirmed that surveillance footage from a nearby business captured the collision. That footage is currently being reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation, which could lead to criminal charges, including reckless driving and injury to a vulnerable road user.

Distracted driving remains a leading cause of traffic fatalities and injuries in Texas. In 2023 alone, over 400 people were killed and thousands more injured in distracted driving incidents across the state, according to the Texas Department of Transportation.

Community leaders and advocates for road safety have seized the moment to call for tougher enforcement and public awareness campaigns. “No text, no call, is worth a life,” said Michelle Harper, director of Safe Streets Houston. “This case puts a national spotlight on a local epidemic.”

As news of the incident spreads, messages of support have poured in from across the sports world, with many current and former NFL players expressing solidarity with Brady and his family.

The Brady family has asked for privacy during this time and has not confirmed whether further updates on Tom Sr.’s condition will be released publicly.