CHEROKEE COUNTY, Texas — A devastating crash early Friday morning claimed the lives of two men when a pickup truck collided with an 18-wheeler on U.S. Highway 69. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the deadly accident happened just after 5:30 a.m. near County Road 2745.
Authorities say the northbound 18-wheeler unexpectedly crossed over the center median into oncoming traffic, slamming into a southbound pickup truck. The truck was driven by 48-year-old Jesus Ayala, with 49-year-old Ezequiel Villanueva as his passenger. The semi struck the driver’s side of the pickup, causing it to overturn and come to rest upside down in a roadside ditch.
Both Ayala and Villanueva were pronounced dead at the scene by Cherokee County Precinct 2 Justice of the Peace Amber Hood. The driver and passenger of the 18-wheeler were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. Their names and conditions have not yet been released, and no additional details about their injuries have been provided.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation. DPS officials are working to determine why the 18-wheeler veered into the opposite lane. Investigators are expected to examine the truck’s condition, driver logs, and toxicology reports as part of the ongoing inquiry. As of now, no charges have been filed.
The crash led to temporary road closures on U.S. 69 as emergency responders cleared the scene. The highway, a major route in Cherokee County, has seen several accidents in recent years, prompting growing concern over driver safety—especially involving large commercial vehicles. DPS Sgt. Chris Williamson confirmed that both vehicles will be thoroughly inspected for any mechanical issues that may have played a role.
Family members and friends of Ayala and Villanueva are now left grieving the sudden and tragic loss. Both men were reportedly traveling together early that morning when their lives were cut short in a moment of chaos. The DPS is urging anyone with information or who may have witnessed the crash to come forward as the community mourns and searches for answers.