Steven Murphey Death News – Authorities in Cooke County are investigating a tragic incident that occurred early Monday morning involving a pedestrian and a vehicle along U.S. Highway 82. According to information released by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the event took place on the eastbound side of the highway, just east of Farm-to-Market Road 1198.
Officials identified the pedestrian as 74-year-old Edward Leyva of Collinsville. The driver involved was 53-year-old Steven Murphey from Nocona. Preliminary reports indicate that Murphey was traveling east on U.S. 82 when the vehicle came into contact with Leyva, who was crossing the eastbound lanes at the time.
Emergency personnel responded quickly to the scene after receiving reports of the incident. Despite their efforts, Mr. Leyva was pronounced deceased at the location by authorities from the Texas DPS. Murphey, the driver, was taken to the North Texas Medical Center for medical evaluation and treatment of injuries that officials described as not life-threatening.
The Texas Department of Public Safety confirmed that the investigation remains ongoing as they work to understand the circumstances that led to the collision. Officers are reviewing evidence from the scene, interviewing witnesses, and examining roadway and lighting conditions to determine contributing factors.
Crashes involving pedestrians are among the most serious incidents investigated by transportation and public safety officials. In rural and semi-rural areas like Cooke County, highways such as U.S. 82 often have limited lighting and high-speed traffic, making pedestrian crossings particularly hazardous, especially during nighttime or early morning hours.
Community members in the area expressed sadness upon hearing about the event. Some noted that while the stretch of road east of FM 1198 is a busy route connecting smaller towns, it lacks sidewalks or designated crosswalks, which can make it challenging for those attempting to walk across or along the highway.
The Texas DPS has reminded both drivers and pedestrians to exercise extreme caution on rural highways. Motorists are encouraged to stay alert, reduce speed in low-visibility conditions, and remain aware of their surroundings, especially during early morning or evening hours. Pedestrians are urged to use well-lit areas, wear reflective clothing if possible, and avoid walking along high-speed routes where there are no sidewalks or safe crossing points.
Authorities have not released any additional details about why Leyva was crossing the roadway or whether other factors may have contributed to the crash. Toxicology reports and other investigative findings are expected to be part of the final report once the investigation concludes.
Murphey has cooperated fully with investigators, and at this time, no charges or citations have been reported. DPS troopers emphasized that their priority is to determine the facts and circumstances surrounding the collision before making any determinations about fault or cause.
This incident serves as a somber reminder of the dangers that exist on busy highways, particularly during hours when visibility is low. Even short trips across major roads can become hazardous without proper safety measures in place. Traffic safety advocates continue to call for improved pedestrian infrastructure and increased public awareness campaigns to reduce the number of similar incidents across Texas.
As the investigation continues, the Texas Department of Public Safety is urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or seen anything unusual in the area around the time of the incident to contact their offices. Additional information could help investigators piece together a clearer picture of what occurred.
The Cooke County community mourns the loss of Mr. Edward Leyva, remembered by neighbors as a kind and friendly local resident. Authorities have extended their condolences to his family as they navigate this difficult time. Meanwhile, Mr. Murphey continues to recover from his injuries as officials work to finalize their findings on the tragic early morning crash.
