Thomas Roberts and Lindsay Vermillion Hospitalized after Leon County Car Crash on Interstate 45 near Leona

Leon County, Texas (June 7, 2022) – Thomas Roberts, 55, of Houston, and Lindsay Vermillion, 31, of Dallas, were among four people who were injured Monday afternoon in a fatal crash in Leon County, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety.

The collision happened at about 3:20 p.m. Monday, June 6, on Interstate Highway 45 at the 157-mile post near Leona.

DPS said a 2021 Chevrolet pickup, driven by Vermillion, and a 2021 Toyota passenger car, driven by Jocelyn Ortega, 27, of Dallas, were stopped on the improved northbound shoulder after a minor traffic accident.

Members of the Centerville Volunteer Fire Department were working on the minor crash when a northbound 2016 International 18-wheeler, driven by Roberts, crashed into both vehicles.

The 18-wheeler then rolled on top of the 2021 Toyota passenger car, killing Ortega.

Two Centerville firefighters, Colten Adams, 21, of Centerville, and Clinton Franklin, 46, of Centerville, sustained serious injuries in the crash. Adams was airlifted to Baylor Scott & White Medical Center in Temple while Franklin was also flown to St. Joseph Health Regional Hospital in Bryan.

Roberts was taken to CHI Madisonville with non-incapacitating injuries. Vermillion was also taken to the same hospital with non-incapacitating injuries.

A state trooper was treated at the scene for minor injuries.

No further details about the crash were provided.

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.

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