Dallas, Texas: A 67-year-old tow truck driver has died after being struck by an SUV while assisting a stranded motorist on the shoulder of Interstate 20 Wednesday afternoon, authorities confirmed.
The crash occurred around 3:43 p.m. near Spur 408 and Mountain Creek Parkway. Deputies responded after a witness at a nearby gas station reported that a man had been hit by a vehicle along the highway.
Tow Truck Operator Found With Severe Injuries
When law enforcement arrived at the scene, they found the tow truck driver unconscious but still breathing on the right shoulder of the roadway. He had suffered serious head injuries. According to investigators, the driver had been helping a 59-year-old man change a flat tire when the incident happened.
Officials said the tow truck was fully parked on the shoulder, and the victim was standing on the left side of the vehicle. A silver SUV allegedly veered onto the shoulder, striking both the driver and the tow truck.
Emergency crews transported the injured man to Methodist Central Hospital in critical condition. Despite medical efforts, he later died from his injuries.
Suspect Identified and Charged
Authorities identified the SUV driver as Selvin Omar Amador Morazan. He was arrested and charged with intoxication manslaughter, a second-degree felony under Texas law.
According to investigators, Amador Morazan told deputies he had briefly looked down after receiving a call from his wife. He said he realized he had hit something when he looked back up. He was reportedly on his way to work in Grand Prairie at the time of the crash.
Deputies observed that the suspect had red, glossy eyes and noted a strong odor of alcohol. He admitted to consuming a 12-ounce Michelada earlier in the afternoon. Officials also stated that he had no prior DWI arrests on record.
Ongoing Investigation
The incident remains under investigation as authorities continue reviewing evidence and witness statements. The tragic crash highlights ongoing concerns about roadway safety, particularly for emergency responders and roadside workers assisting motorists along busy highways.
