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A devastating crash on Interstate 20 near Terrell, Texas, on Saturday afternoon left six people dead and several others injured, according to Fox 4. Authorities say the incident, involving three 18-wheelers and four passenger vehicles, occurred around 2:40 p.m. in the westbound lanes just east of Hiram Road.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the crash began when the driver of an 18-wheeler fell asleep behind the wheel. The truck collided with an F-150 carrying five passengers before striking two other 18-wheelers. One of the semis jack-knifed, impacting a Jeep Compass, a Ford Mustang, and a Honda passenger car.
Of the six fatalities, four were in the F-150, while the fifth was in the Jeep Compass. Several other individuals sustained injuries, as the sixth one was reported fatal by Dallas News on June 30, 2025. The exact number of those injured has yet to be confirmed.
The westbound lanes of I-20 were shut down for hours as emergency crews worked to clear the wreckage and investigate the scene.
The driver of the 18-wheeler at the center of the collision, 27-year-old Alexis Osmani Gonzalez-Companioni, has been arrested. He faces five counts of manslaughter and one count of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. Court records show that he is currently being held in Kaufman County jail on a $1.5 million bond.
This incident has left the community grappling with the loss of life and the injuries sustained. Investigations into the crash are ongoing.
When lives are forever changed by catastrophic truck accidents, understanding the legal steps available can provide a path forward for victims and their families. In a recent discussion, experienced attorney Anjali Nigam shared valuable guidance on how those affected by these devastating events can seek compensation, hold responsible parties accountable, and navigate the complexities of the legal process.
Editor Darla Medina: Accidents involving 18-wheelers often cause significant harm. What legal steps can victims or their families take after such incidents?
Attorney Anjali Nigam: Victims and their families can file claims to recover damages for medical costs, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. For those who’ve lost loved ones, wrongful death claims offer a way to address the financial and emotional hardships they face.
Medina: In cases like this one, where driver fatigue is suspected, how does that affect legal responsibility?
Nigam: Driver fatigue is a serious issue that points directly to negligence. Both the driver and the trucking company may bear liability. Companies are required to follow federal regulations limiting hours of service to prevent fatigue, and failure to do so can strengthen a victim’s case.
Medina: What would you recommend to families dealing with such tragedies?
Nigam: Families should act quickly to consult an experienced attorney. Evidence in trucking accidents, like driver logs or vehicle maintenance records, can be crucial and may not be preserved without prompt legal intervention. An attorney can help ensure their rights are protected and their case is properly handled.
For families reeling from the aftermath of a semi-truck accident, taking legal steps can be a way to address the profound challenges they face. While no legal action can erase the pain of injury or loss, holding accountable those responsible can provide financial relief and a sense of justice. Seeking the guidance of an experienced attorney ensures that victims’ rights are protected and their voices are heard during this difficult time.
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