Hartley County, TX (December 26, 2024) – A tragic collision early Christmas morning on U.S. Highway 87 claimed the lives of six individuals, including four children, and left one man injured in Hartley County, Texas. The crash occurred at approximately 12:28 a.m., under foggy and wet conditions, six miles east of Hartley.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), a 2018 Honda Pilot towing a small trailer was traveling westbound when it crossed into the eastbound lanes for reasons still under investigation. The SUV collided with a 2016 Freightliner M2 box truck traveling eastbound, causing a devastating impact.
After the collision, the SUV’s trailer detached, and the vehicle became fully engulfed in flames. Tragically, all six occupants of the SUV lost their lives at the scene. The deceased were identified as Jaredi Mpaweingabire, 31, Mapendo Olga, 28, a 5-year-old male child, a 6-year-old female child, a 4-year-old female child, and a 2-year-old male child, all from Cactus.
The driver of the box truck, identified as Tyler Morales, 36, of Amarillo, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to Coon Memorial Hospital in Dalhart for treatment.
DPS investigators noted that Morales and the two adults in the SUV were wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. It is unclear if the children in the SUV were restrained. Foggy and wet conditions likely played a role in the collision, but the exact factors contributing to the incident remain under investigation.
Our thoughts are with the families and loved ones affected by this heartbreaking tragedy, and we extend our deepest condolences to the community of Cactus.
Deadly Crashes in the Texas Panhandle
The Texas Panhandle, with its vast highways and often unpredictable weather, is a region where serious crashes are tragically common. Accidents involving large commercial vehicles, such as tractor-trailers, frequently result in devastating outcomes due to the size and weight disparity between vehicles.
Conditions such as fog and wet roads, as seen in this incident, can significantly increase the likelihood of crashes. Drivers are urged to exercise heightened caution during adverse weather, reducing speed and increasing following distances to improve reaction times.
Tragic accidents like this one highlight the importance of proper vehicle maintenance, cautious driving, and compliance with seatbelt laws to prevent further loss of life. While investigations are ongoing, it serves as a reminder of the devastating impacts traffic collisions can have on families and communities.
If you or someone you know has been impacted by a tragic accident, Local Accident Reports is here to provide guidance and support. We are committed to helping individuals navigate the aftermath of such incidents and connect them with resources to assist them during these difficult times.