35-Year-Old Odessa Woman Seriously Injured in Odessa Three-Vehicle Crash at Highway 385 and County Road West; Juan Valdez Arrested

Odessa, Texas – An Odessa woman was seriously injured on Monday in a hit-and-run accident in Odessa, according to the authorities.

The crash happened on March 11, at the intersection of S Highway 385 and S County Road West. 

Authorities said a Mazda driven by 29-year-old Juan Alexia Gallegos Valdez was stopped partially in the roadway on the outside lane when it was struck by a Jeep Wrangler driven by a 35-year-old Odessa woman.

The Jeep rolled over after the impact into the fence line east of the roadway.

A third vehicle was also involved in the crash.

The Jeep driver was taken to the hospital with a skull fracture and broken arm.

Valdez fled the scene before police arrived. Deputies with the Ector County Sheriff’s Office spotted an injured Valdez running northwest on S County Road West, shortly after the crash. He admitted that he was driving the Mazda and confessed to leaving the scene. He was arrested and charged with Accident Involving Injury/Failure to Stop and Render Aid, as well as multiple traffic-related offenses. Investigators said the license plate on Valdez’s Mazda belonged to another vehicle. His car was also unregistered and uninsured, He was also cited for not wearing a seat belt and for not having a driver’s license. He remained in the Ector County Law Enforcement Center as of Wednesday afternoon on a $40,000 bond and an Immigration and Customs Enforcement hold. A source close to the investigation said Valdez has been living in the United States illegally following a previous deportation.

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.