Written by: Benton Accident & Injury Lawyers Last Updated : December 6, 2024

Joel Garza, 28, killed in car vs. semi crash on TX-349 near Rankin

UPTON CO., TX – A wrong-way crash along TX-349 in southeast Upton County killed one person and injured another last Tuesday afternoon, reports NewsWest9.

The accident happened shortly before 1:30 p.m. just north of Rankin. This is about 55 south of Midland.

Police say that for unknown reasons, a northbound 2020 Nissan Altima entered the southbound side of the highway and collided head-on with a southbound 18-wheeler.

The wrong-way driver, identified as 28-year-old Joel Garza, died at the scene of the wreck.

The truck driver, identified as 60-year-old Ruben Rodriguez, went to the hospital with non-critical injuries.

Drivers likely experienced delays on TX-349 north of Rankin while emergency teams worked at the scene.

A full investigation is underway.

If you’ve lost a family member in an Upton County auto collision, please know that you don’t have to navigate the legal process on your own. During this time of grieving, let the Texas wrongful death lawyers at The Benton Law Firm take the lead on your family’s case and help you pursue fair legal recourse for the loss you’ve endured. Call us today at (214) 777-7777 or visit us on our website to request a free consultation.

Note: The information included in this post was derived from secondary sources and has not been independently confirmed. Any inaccurate information will be corrected immediately after being brought to the site’s attention. If you identify any false information within this story, please inform us immediately so we can adjust the post to contain the most accurate information available surrounding this event.

Disclaimer: The intent of this post is to provide general information to our readers and to help improve the safety and quality of life of those who live in our state. At the Benton Law Firm, we intend to honor those who are victimized in accidents across Texas. We aim to provide up to date information to the public surrounding these incidents in hopes of helping others to avoid becoming victims themselves or to know how to respond should a tragedy occur. Do not rely on any information within this post. Instead, seek further assistance from a legal or medical professional whenever necessary.

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