DALLAS – A 29-year-old attorney with Jackson Walker LLP died Saturday evening after the Porsche she was riding in was struck by a Tesla in the Turtle Creek neighborhood.
Emma Hackney was a passenger in the Porsche when the collision occurred around 6:30 p.m. near the intersection of Turtle Creek Boulevard and Bowen Street. Dallas police say the Tesla, driven by 32-year-old Matthew Petty, crossed into oncoming traffic.
SUPPORT THE FAMILY - GOD BLESS YOU
Officers at the scene arrested Petty on suspicion of intoxication. Witnesses told investigators that Petty appeared to be distracted moments before impact; one person reported seeing a passenger in the Tesla reach for the driver’s phone. Petty was taken to an area hospital for treatment of minor injuries. A search warrant was obtained to draw blood and to seize a thumb drive from the Tesla’s data port for analysis of speed and other factors.
Hackney was transported to Parkland Hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 6:41 p.m. Another passenger in the Porsche suffered non-life-threatening injuries and remains hospitalized.
Jackson Walker LLP issued a statement Sunday morning:
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of our colleague Emma Hackney. Emma was an outstanding attorney and an even more remarkable person whose warmth and dedication touched everyone at the firm. Our thoughts are with her family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
Colleagues describe Hackney as sharp, kind, and always willing to mentor younger associates. She joined the firm after graduating from SMU Dedman School of Law and had quickly earned respect in the Dallas legal community.
The Dallas Police Department’s Major Accident Investigation Unit continues to examine evidence from the scene and vehicle data. Additional charges against Petty are possible pending toxicology results and reconstruction findings.
Funeral arrangements are pending. The firm has established a memorial fund in Hackney’s name to support causes she cared about, including pro bono legal services for domestic-violence survivors.
Emma Hackney is survived by her parents, siblings, and a wide circle of friends and coworkers who remember her as a bright light taken far too soon.