HEWITT, Texas – A deadly crash on Interstate 35 in Hewitt early Wednesday morning has left one person dead and six others hospitalized. The accident, which involved a semi-truck and four other vehicles, erupted in flames after the collision. Authorities have identified the deceased as 39-year-old Jennifer James of Lorena, who tragically lost her life in the fiery wreck.
According to Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) Sergeant Ryan Howard, the crash occurred when a truck tractor approached a construction zone at high speed, despite traffic slowing due to ongoing roadwork. “Traffic was slowed as there was a road crew doing some type of road work,” Sgt. Howard explained. “As they were doing that road work and traffic started slowing down, this truck tractor still came in at a high rate of speed, crashing into several other vehicles and truck tractors.”
The collision caused multiple vehicles to catch fire, leading to widespread devastation and the tragic loss of life. Six individuals were taken to the hospital with injuries, but DPS later confirmed that they were treated and released.
The incident has sparked renewed concern over safety protocols for roadwork and construction zones. Jake Smith, Public Information Officer for the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) in Waco, assured the public that TxDOT takes extensive precautions to ensure the safety of both workers and motorists. Before each project, Smith said, TxDOT crews hold safety meetings and discuss a traffic control plan designed to protect the public.
“Our crews will have safety meetings and a broad discussion about the upcoming operation to ensure their safety and that the traffic control plan that will be put in place is the safest for the traveling public,” Smith stated.
TxDOT also utilizes a variety of methods to warn drivers of upcoming work zones, including portable changeable message boards, dynamic message signs (DMS), flaggers, and standard warning signage indicating an upcoming work zone.
Despite these efforts, Smith emphasized the importance of driver awareness. “Drivers need to be aware, whether it’s daytime, nighttime, or early morning hours,” he said. “We always encourage motorists to pay attention, mind their speed, and be on the lookout.”
Sgt. Howard echoed the importance of avoiding distractions when approaching construction zones. “That’s not the time to be on your cell phone or distracted by the radio,” he said. “Eliminate those distractions, pay attention, and make sure everybody is safe on the road.”
As the investigation into the cause of the crash continues, Smith reminded drivers of the state’s “move over and slow down” law, which requires motorists to either move over a lane or reduce their speed by 20 miles per hour when approaching stopped TxDOT vehicles with their lights flashing.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and authorities have not yet disclosed whether the driver of the semi-truck will face any charges. However, DPS confirmed that the six individuals taken to the hospital following the accident have since been treated and released.
As the community processes the loss, local authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution and vigilance on the roads, particularly when entering work zones.
