Laina Wanttie ID’d as Woman Killed in Smith County Crash on Toll 49 near FM 16

Smith County, Texas (September 2, 2022) – The Texas Department of Public Safety has identified the woman who died on Tuesday following a crash involving an ambulance and a car in Smith County.

Laina Wanttie, 51, of Mineola, died in the crash that happened at around noon Tuesday, August 30, on Toll 49, just south of FM 16 and Lindale.

DPS said a 2016 Ford Ambulance was responding to a report of a vehicle that was stranded in the ditch due to the rain.

The ambulance was traveling northbound on Toll 49 while a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu was heading southbound on Toll 49. The Impala lost control due to the wet roadway and drifted into the northbound lane, where it collided with the ambulance.

The ambulance overturned after the crash.

The woman driving the Impala, now identified as Wanttie, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the ambulance and the front seat passenger were taken to a hospital with incapacitating injuries. They are currently both in fair condition.

DPS is investigating the accident.

Common Causes of Automobile Accidents

There are many different reasons why automobile, 18-wheeler, 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.

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