Deputy Charles Rivette Killed, James Frances Injured in Leon County Multi-Vehicle Crash on Interstate 45

Leon County, Texas – A Montgomery County deputy was killed and several other people were injured Wednesday night in a multi-vehicle crash in Leon County, according to the Texas DPS.

The fatal crash happened around 10:29 p.m., February 21, on Interstate 45 southbound, about five miles south of Buffalo.

DPS said a Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office patrol vehicle, a 2023 Chevrolet Tahoe, was transporting an inmate and was traveling southbound when it struck a southbound 2009 Freightliner 18-wheeler.

The front passenger of the Tahoe was ejected and landed in the northbound lanes and the Tahoe came to a rest in the northbound lanes.

A northbound 2008 Ford F-150 then struck the passenger who was ejected. A 2016 Freightliner and a 2008 Freightliner were traveling northbound when they struck the Tahoe.

The passenger who was ejected, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Deputy Charles Rivette, 38, of New Caney, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Tahoe driver, 37-year-old James Frances, of Coldspring, was airlifted to Christus Mother Francis Hospital in Tyler with serious injuries. The back seat passenger, an inmate, was airlifted to CHI St Joseph Regional Hospital in Bryan.

The driver of one of the Freightliners was transported to Freestone Medical Center for treatment. 

No other injuries were reported.

The crash remains under investigation.

Common Causes of Automobile Accidents

There are many different reasons why automobile, pedestrian, 18-wheeler, bicycle, and motorcycle accidents occur, including driver negligence, driver inattention, 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 under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While the factors listed above are the main causes of most accidents, there may also be other factors involved, which is why it’s important that an investigation be conducted before evidence disappears, especially in cases involving a fatality.  At Joel A. Gordon & Associates, we will act quickly to secure accident scene photos, interview witnesses, obtain police records, and secure other valuable evidence needed to win your case.  Call now for a free consultation.

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