Killeen, TX (February 1, 2026) -Multiple people were injured in a multi-vehicle crash on I-14 in Killeen, according to police. The collision occurred around 2:26 a.m. on January 31 when a red Dodge Charger traveling at high speed eastbound struck a gray GMC SUV during a lane change, then collided with a black Mercedes-Benz SUV. All three vehicles left the roadway and rolled down an embankment before coming to rest on Central Texas Expressway. Emergency crews extricated the occupants of the Dodge Charger, and two individuals were hospitalized with serious injuries. A female passenger in the Mercedes-Benz also sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the Mercedes-Benz fled the scene but was apprehended shortly after and found in possession of a stolen firearm, narcotics, and an active arrest warrant. The crash closed the expressway for approximately four hours. The Killeen Police Department continues to investigate.
Key Details
- Location: Killeen, TX
- Where: I-14 near Central Texas Expressway
- Type: Multi-Vehicle Crash
- Reported: January 31, 2:26 a.m.
- Injuries: Confirmed
- Responding Agency: Killeen Police Department, Killeen Fire Department
What We Know So Far
- A red Dodge Charger struck two SUVs during a high-speed lane change
- All three vehicles rolled down an embankment and came to rest on Central Texas Expressway
- Multiple people were injured, including serious injuries to occupants of the Dodge Charger
- The Mercedes-Benz driver fled but was caught and found with illegal items and a warrant
What’s Not Yet Confirmed
- The exact speed at which the Dodge Charger was traveling
- Whether impairment was a factor in the crash
- The total number of individuals transported from the scene
- Potential charges pending against the fleeing driver
Local Context
A crash along I-14 near Central Texas Expressway can quickly escalate due to high-speed travel, lane changes, and closely spaced on-ramps. In this case, responders from the Killeen Police and Fire Departments had to coordinate emergency extrication and medical transport for multiple victims. With vehicles rolling down an embankment and one driver attempting to flee, crews had to manage both medical priorities and scene security. The expressway closure lasted roughly four hours while evidence was gathered and the site was cleared. Updates are expected as investigators finalize their findings.
What to Do Next
- Remain at the scene and cooperate with first responders. Leaving before police arrive can create complications later.
- If your vehicle is disabled, arrange safe towing and avoid standing near active traffic lanes.
- If it’s safe, take photos of vehicle damage, road conditions, and the surrounding area.
- Monitor how you feel after the crash. Some injuries can appear hours or days later.
FAQ
Q: Why do multi-vehicle crashes take longer to clear?
A: Crashes involving several vehicles require more time to secure the scene, assess injuries, document all parties, and remove damaged vehicles safely. Evidence collection is also more complex.
Q: What happens when a driver flees the scene of a crash?
A: Fleeing a crash scene is a criminal offense. Law enforcement pursues suspects and may file charges related to hit-and-run, obstruction, or other violations based on evidence and witness statements.
Q: Why might a road remain closed for hours after a crash?
A: Roads are often closed to allow for medical response, scene investigation, vehicle removal, and evidence preservation. Safety and thoroughness guide when lanes can reopen.
