Family Killed in Violent Crash near Conroe

A family of four was killed in a tragic accident along Texas 105 as they approached Conroe on March 23. The car accident, which was one of the most severe wrecks in the area’s recent history, occurred when a Dodge Ram drifted over the center line and plowed head-on into the family’s Volkswagen Jetta. East Texas law enforcement officers said both vehicles sustained severe damage in the crash, with the truck’s engine being thrown from its frame. The accident happened at about 5:45 a.m., according to media reports.

The female driver of the Jetta, age 27, was traveling with her husband, 28, and their two young children. All four of the family members were declared dead at the scene according to police reports. The 40-year-old driver of the pickup truck sustained serious, but non-life threatening, injuries. He was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

While the investigation into the crash continues, authorities say they are marveling at the severity of the crash. One trooper called the wreck the worst he had ever seen, considering the severe property damage and tragic loss of life. The high casualty count reflects the high speeds involved in the accident.

Authorities said the driver of the pickup truck has been cooperative throughout the investigation. Alcohol does not appear to be a factor in the crash, but officers have not eliminated speed or weather as contributors to the early-morning collision. One witness provided an official statement about the crash, but authorities said he arrived on the scene after the truck had already struck the smaller sedan. Investigators say they are still trying to determine the official cause of the collision.

The at-fault driver in this case appears to be the operator of the pickup truck. In that case, relatives of the decedents should consider filing a civil suit against that driver. They could recover financial damages for wrongful death, along with pain and suffering and emotional distress. Relatives could also receive judgments for loss of consort, a claim that is used to indicate the loss of companionship caused by untimely death.

Charges have not yet been filed in the case, and it is not yet clear whether family members intend to file a civil suit.