July 19, 2026, per KTXS News Report, two people lost their lives Saturday evening after a pickup truck towing a trailer collided with a tractor-trailer on westbound Interstate 20 in the Merkel city limits in Taylor County, Texas. The pickup overturned following the impact, killing both occupants at the scene.
Details of the Incident
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the crash took place at approximately 7:41 p.m. on Saturday, July 19, on westbound I-20 near Merkel. A 2019 Ford F-250 pickup truck towing a 2014 East Texas trailer was traveling westbound and attempted to pass a 2012 International truck tractor pulling a Wabash semi-trailer. Investigators determined that the pickup driver failed to allow sufficient space before merging back into the lane, causing the trailer being towed to strike the tractor-trailer. Upon impact, the pickup entered a side skid, left the roadway, and overturned.
Victims Identified
The driver of the pickup, Charles Murray, 80, of Coldspring, Texas, was pronounced dead at the scene. His passenger, Deborah Murray, 67, also of Coldspring, was likewise pronounced dead at the scene. Both were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. The driver of the tractor-trailer, Leonide Samon Soto, 49, of Houston, was wearing a seat belt and was not injured. The crash occurred under clear skies on a dry roadway with a posted speed limit of 75 mph.
Investigation Ongoing
The Texas Department of Public Safety continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. No additional information has been released at this time.
Crashes involving semi-trucks and tractor-trailers can have devastating consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured in a collision with a commercial truck, a semi-truck accident lawyer in El Paso can help you understand your legal rights and fight for the compensation your family deserves.
Disclaimer: The information provided is not to be used as medical or legal advice and is not intended for solicitation purposes. Any images used in connection with this article are not from the actual accident scene. If you were injured in an accident, seek medical attention immediately and consult with a qualified truck accident attorney regarding your legal rights.