A fatal crash on Interstate 40 near Groom claimed the life of a 31-year-old man from Amarillo late Monday night. The incident occurred at around 11:18 p.m., just under a mile west of Groom, where the roadway was clear and dry, with a posted speed limit of 75 mph. The crash involved a 2004 Roadtrek 190 Popular RV traveling eastbound in the right lane. The driver, 35-year-old Brandon Langston from Duncan, Oklahoma, tried to avoid a pedestrian standing in the road by braking and swerving to the right but was unable to prevent the collision.
The pedestrian, identified as Johnathan Morales, 31, from Amarillo, was declared dead at the scene by Carson County Justice of the Peace Kathleen Barkley. Langston, who was wearing a seatbelt, emerged from the crash unscathed. Two passengers in the RV, 52-year-old Laura McCartney from Oklahoma City and 43-year-old Kevin Scott from Moore, Oklahoma, were also unharmed. While Scott was wearing a seatbelt, McCartney was not.
The Texas Highway Patrol is currently investigating the crash, seeking to understand the circumstances that led to this tragic event. Despite the clear conditions on the roadway, the sudden presence of a pedestrian created a dangerous situation that resulted in a fatal outcome. The investigation aims to uncover any additional factors that may have contributed to the incident.
This tragic event has left the community in shock and mourning. The unexpected loss of Johnathan Morales has prompted an outpouring of grief from family and friends, as they try to come to terms with the sudden and tragic circumstances of his death. Authorities continue to work on piecing together the events of that night to provide answers and possibly prevent similar incidents in the future.
As the investigation unfolds, no further details have been released. The Texas Highway Patrol is urging anyone with information about the crash to come forward to assist with their inquiries. The goal is to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the incident and to address any contributing factors that might have led to the fatal collision.
The tragic loss serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that can arise on roadways, even under seemingly optimal conditions. The community is left to grapple with the sorrow and the stark reality of how quickly lives can be altered. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family and friends of Johnathan Morales during this difficult time.
