At approximately 7:45a.m., the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) received a report of a multiple vehicle crash on SH 87 in Orange County. The crash occurred near the Sabine River Authority offices.
Preliminary reports indicate that a Ford Edge was stopped southbound on SH 87 waiting to make a left turn onto LP Way. A 2000 GMC pickup truck was traveling southbound on SH 87 and observed the stopped vehicle. The driver of the GMC passed the stopped vehicle on the right shoulder and attempted to maneuver back onto the main traveled portion of the roadway, but lost control. The GMC pickup truck crossed into the northbound traffic lane and struck a truck tractor semi-trailer hauling wood chips. The impact caused the 18-wheeler to veer into the southbound traffic lane, side-swiping the Ford Edge as the truck tractor rolled over. The 18-wheeler lost its load before catching fire.
The driver of the Ford Edge, 64-year-old William Garcia of Louisiana, was transported by ambulance to St. Elizabeth hospital. His injuries did not appear to be life threatening.
The driver of the GMC pickup truck, 21-year-old Anthony Self of Louisiana, and his passenger were both transported by ambulance to St. Elizabeth hospital. Their injuries are not believed to be life threatening.
The driver of the 18-wheeler, James Rush, 42, of Livingston sustained minor injuries and was also transported to St. Elizabeth hospital.
At this time, all northbound and southbound traffic lanes of SH 87 remain closed. The roadway will remain closed until all crash debris has been safely removed from the road. The road closure could last into the late afternoon hours. Motorists are urged to find alternate travel routes. Expect delays.
This crash remains under investigation.
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