Emma Hackney Car Accident: Preston Petty, a Man from Dallas, Faces Charges in Fatal Crash That Claimed the Life of Lawyer Emma Hackney

 A tragic accident in Uptown Dallas has resulted in the death of one woman and left two others in critical condition, while the driver suspected of causing the incident is now confronting several felony charges. An arrest warrant affidavit states that 26-year-old Preston Petty was reportedly impaired by drugs and/or alcohol when he lost command of his 2025 Tesla on Sunday night.

Crash Details

Witnesses informed law enforcement that Petty was driving at high speed south on Cedar Springs Road when he was unable to navigate a bend. The Tesla allegedly collided with numerous trees, struck a median, and then became airborne before crashing into a Porsche that was halted at a red light on Turtle Creek Boulevard.

The collision was devastating. The Porsche rolled over, and Petty’s Tesla came to rest on top of it.

The Porsche's driver, 29-year-old Emma Hackney, was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger traveling with her sustained serious injuries. Petty’s mother, who was in the Tesla with him, also suffered critical injuries.

According to the arrest affidavit:

A police officer noted the scent of alcohol on Petty.

Petty claimed he was not intoxicated but confessed to holding his phone while driving.

He alleged the accident happened because his mother attempted to take the phone from him.

He also mentioned that he was returning home to consume wine.

Authorities retrieved a thumb drive from the Tesla, which might have information regarding the vehicle's speed and other diagnostics during the crash.

Charges Filed

Petty faces charges of:

Intoxication manslaughter

Intoxication assault resulting in serious bodily harm

He was taken into custody at the Dallas County Jail on charges that include intoxication assault leading to serious bodily injury. Law enforcement reports that the investigation is still ongoing.

Community Reaction

Residents and workers in the Uptown vicinity conveyed their sorrow and disappointment, pointing out that speeding is a common issue on Cedar Springs Road.

"This truly breaks my heart because such events shouldn't occur," expressed Jaime Balon, an employee nearby. "Drivers need to operate their vehicles more responsibly and show greater concern for others. It’s heartbreaking to hear about this tragedy."

Remembering Emma Hackney

The woman who lost her life in the accident, Emma Hackney, was a well-respected lawyer in the Banking & Finance sector at Jackson Walker’s Dallas office. Her legal expertise was concentrated on finance, real estate, and commercial dealings.

Hackney had significant experience representing:

Banks

Private equity firms

Insurance agencies

Corporate clients

She was involved in intricate financing arrangements such as lines of credit, equipment loans, working capital financing, and growth capital lending. Her real estate expertise encompassed construction, interim, and permanent financing for:

Multifamily housing projects

Industrial facilities

Office buildings

Assisted living centers

Hotels and retail stores

Healthcare properties

Her passing has left the legal and financial circles in Dallas grieving.

Investigation Continues

According to the Dallas Police, the incident continues to be investigated actively. Further details, including possible automotive data evidence, may become available as the case develops.