Hermenegildo Melendez, 4 others killed in head-on crash
LEON CO., TX – A wrong-way collision along the highway in south-central Leon County killed one person and injured one other Saturday afternoon, reports KHOU 11.
The fatal crash occurred shortly after 3:15 p.m. on the northbound side of I-45 near mile marker 157, which is just northwest of Leona and about 130 miles southeast of Dallas.
Police say that for unknown reasons, a southbound 2016 Dodge pickup truck entered the northbound side of I-45 and collided head-on with a 2023 Ford F-150 carrying five people. The impact of the crash caused both pickup trucks to catch fire.
The driver of the Ford, identified as 55-year-old Hermenegildo Melendez died at this scene, as did his four passengers. Authorities identified the four additional victims as 18-year-old Daniela Cerda, 20-year-old Rebecca Cerda, 26-year-old Veronica Denise Cerda, and 53-year-old Veronica Cerda.
Medics transported the wrong-way driver, identified as 43-year-old Toriano Fair, to an area hospital with serious injuries.
It’s unclear if Fair will face charges in connection to the accident.
A full investigation is underway.
If you’ve lost a family member in a Leon County car accident caused by a careless or inattentive driver, our hearts go out to you during this difficult time. Please be aware that the Texas wrongful death attorneys at The Benton Law Firm are able to help families like yours to understand your legal options and fight aggressively for just recourse. Call us today at (214) 777-7777 or reach us online for a free consultation.
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