Ariana Washington Killed in Port Arthur Two-Vehicle Crash on Highway 82 near Valero Refinery

Port Arthur, Texas (May 22, 2021) – Three people were killed, and a child was critically injured Thursday night in a two-vehicle crash in Port Arthur, according to the Port Arthur Police Department.

The fatal crash happened around 7:35 p.m., May 20, in the 2600 block of Highway 82.

Police said Chance Glynn Craddock, 25, of Nacogdoches, was driving a Dodge truck northbound on the highway when he crossed over into southbound traffic and crashed into a passenger vehicle.

The force of the impact caused the passenger vehicle to overturn and come to rest next to the fence at the refinery.

Three people in the passenger vehicle were pronounced dead at the scene. The victims have been identified as Ariana Washington, 14, Danny Nichols Jr., 32, and Lamberia McDaniel, 35. All three victims were from Port Arthur.

A young child who was also riding in the passenger vehicle was taken to the hospital with critical injuries.

Craddock was taken to a local hospital for treatment. He admitted to using drugs and alcohol prior to the crash. He was arrested and charged with three counts of intoxication manslaughter.

The PAPD Accident Reconstruction Team and Criminal Investigations Division are investigating the crash.

Common Causes of Automobile Accidents

While there are many causes of car accidents, the most common reasons of driver negligence include driver inattention; cell phone use; texting and driving; speeding; fatigue; failure to yield the right of way from a stop sign or private drive; running a red light; and driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs,” Attorney Joel A. Gordon said. Mr. Gordon believes that an independent investigation is important. An Attorney will help obtain the crash report, secure accident photos, interview witnesses, and create a claim.

To speak with an attorney, Click to call: 281-943-5555.