Montague County, TX (December 29, 2024) – A fatal head-on collision occurred early Saturday morning on US Highway 81, leaving one person dead and two others injured. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The accident was reported around 5:30 AM and involved a southbound vehicle traveling in the northbound lane. DPS officials identified the driver of the southbound vehicle as 66-year-old Shelley Gene Jewell. Jewell’s vehicle collided head-on with a northbound vehicle carrying four passengers.
Following the collision, Jewell’s vehicle came to rest in the center median while the northbound vehicle rolled onto its roof before stopping in the northbound lanes.
Two passengers from the northbound vehicle sustained minor injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Tragically, Jewell was pronounced dead at the scene due to her injuries. Reports indicate that while the four passengers in the northbound vehicle were wearing seatbelts, Jewell was not.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing as DPS troopers work to determine additional factors that may have contributed to the incident.
Head-on Collisions in Texas
Head-on collisions are among the most severe types of car accidents, often resulting in catastrophic injuries or fatalities. Major highways like US Highway 81 are particularly prone to such accidents due to high speeds and potential driver errors.
Victims of head-on collisions often face significant challenges, including physical injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. In cases involving a loss of life, families may also grapple with profound grief and complex legal processes.
Texas law requires all drivers and passengers to wear seatbelts to reduce the risk of injury or death during a collision. Proper use of safety equipment can significantly mitigate the severity of injuries in an accident.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a head-on collision, legal guidance can help navigate the aftermath and secure support for recovery. For more information or to receive assistance, contact Local Accident Reports.