Tyler Police Department Officer Josiah Baxter was transported to a rehabilitation facility for further therapy on Friday morning, September 25, 2026, one week after sustaining severe injuries in an on-duty crash. Baxter departed Christus Mother Frances Hospital, where he had been receiving treatment for his injuries, with a large show of support from fellow officers.
Officers gathered at the hospital’s interior exit and outside the building to support Baxter as he left. They also escorted him to the rehabilitation facility.
Baxter was severely injured early Friday morning, September 18, 2026, when his patrol vehicle was struck by another car. Authorities say the crash was caused by an alleged intoxicated driver, identified as Robert Fasang, 21. The Tyler Police Department reported that Fasang’s vehicle, which was speeding, ran a stop sign at Virginia Avenue and collided with Baxter’s patrol vehicle on East Commerce Street. Chief Jimmy Toler stated that the impact was so severe it pushed Baxter’s vehicle off the street and into a wooded area. The City of Tyler confirmed both vehicles involved sustained “catastrophic damage.”
Following the incident, Fasang was medically evaluated and subsequently arrested. He faces a charge of intoxication assault on a peace officer and is currently held at the Smith County Jail on a $1 million bond. According to judicial records, Fasang is due in court on Monday, September 28, 2026, for a hearing.
Baxter’s family reported that the officer suffered approximately 14 broken bones, a puncture wound, and a collapsed lung. His wife, Rebecca, shared in a public Facebook update that she believes her husband survived due to supernatural intervention. Tyler Police Department Sgt. Chuck Boyce commented on Baxter’s dedication, noting he “had worked his shift, done his job, getting ready to go home to see his family just like we do every day” before the crash.
Officer Baxter has been an integral part of the Tyler Police Department for eight years. In March 2021, he was recognized with the Life Saving Award alongside Officer Bobby Roberts for their response to an aggravated assault call. The department cited their rapid trauma assessment, use of medical kits, and chest seal to stop a victim’s bleeding until EMS arrived. Chief Jimmy Toler commended Baxter, describing him as “a reliable, steady, just good young man that’s come here that shows up every day to do his job, and we’re proud of him.”
The Tyler Patrolman’s Association noted that Baxter is the sole provider for his wife and three children, one of whom has significant medical needs requiring constant care. His recovery is expected to mean considerable time away from work, which could pose a challenge for his family’s stability.
Community members are contributing to an online fundraiser organized by the Tyler Patrolman’s Association to support Baxter’s family. As of Tuesday afternoon, September 22, 2026, over $57,000 had been raised toward a $60,000 goal. Officer Baxter will continue his recovery at the rehabilitation facility, while Fasang awaits his court appearance to address the charges.
