Ector County, TX (August 11, 2025) – A man from Andrews was killed and three others were injured Friday evening in a two-vehicle crash along US 385 in Ector County. The Texas Department of Public Safety reported that the incident occurred at approximately 7:15 p.m. near mile marker 342.
Investigators said a 2015 Peterbilt truck with a trailer, driven by a 22-year-old Amarillo man, suffered a front left tire blowout while traveling northbound in the outside lane. The driver lost control, crossed the median into the southbound lanes, and attempted to re-enter the northbound side when he collided with a 2021 Chevrolet Silverado traveling south.
The Silverado’s front passenger, a 33-year-old Andrews man, was transported to Medical Center Hospital in Odessa, where he later died. Both drivers and another passenger were taken to the hospital with minor injuries. The crash remains under investigation by DPS. Our thoughts are with all those impacted by this tragic event.
Fatal Highway Accidents in Texas
Highway collisions involving large trucks often have severe consequences due to the size and weight disparity between commercial vehicles and passenger cars. In Texas, stretches of rural highway such as US 385 pose unique dangers, with high-speed traffic, fewer barriers between lanes, and the potential for mechanical failures like tire blowouts.
According to state data, tire failures are a leading mechanical cause of serious truck crashes, frequently resulting in loss of control. Preventive measures—such as routine tire inspections, proper load balancing, and adherence to maintenance schedules—are critical for reducing these incidents. For passenger vehicle drivers, maintaining a safe distance and staying alert when traveling alongside commercial trucks can help minimize risk. State safety programs continue to focus on enhanced truck inspections, highway engineering improvements, and public education campaigns aimed at reducing fatal crashes on rural routes.
If you or a loved one has been affected by a serious highway accident, contact Local Accident Reports to connect with guidance and support resources.