Bryan Ordaz-Reyes, Braxton Amador Obituary, Death – Two Dumas residents tragically lost their lives early Saturday morning in a collision involving a disabled vehicle and a semitrailer on Interstate 40 in Gray County, Texas, during severe weather conditions.
The incident occurred at approximately 2:16 a.m. on April 26, when a 2020 Freightliner truck tractor, towing a semi-trailer, was traveling eastbound on I-40. According to preliminary reports from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the truck came upon a 2018 Chevrolet Camaro, which had been disabled on the highway following a previous crash. The Camaro was stationary in the roadway, making it a hazard for oncoming traffic.
Due to the severe weather conditions, which included heavy rain and dark visibility, the driver of the Freightliner did not see the Camaro in time to avoid a collision. The DPS stated that the semitrailer struck the passenger side of the Camaro, causing a violent impact. As a result of the crash, the driver of the Camaro was ejected from the vehicle. The two individuals inside the Camaro, identified as Bryan Ordaz-Reyes, 22, and Braxton Amador, 19, both from Dumas, died at the scene from the injuries they sustained in the accident.
The driver of the semitrailer was not injured in the collision. Authorities have not yet disclosed his identity, but they confirmed that he was not harmed. Despite the tragic outcome, the investigation into the crash is still ongoing. Investigators are working to understand the exact circumstances surrounding the crash and to determine if any additional factors contributed to the fatal incident.
At the time of the crash, the posted speed limit on I-40 was 75 mph. However, the weather conditions—specifically the rain—were likely a significant factor in reducing visibility and road traction. The combination of the rain and the dark conditions at the time of the crash may have contributed to the driver of the semitrailer failing to see the disabled Camaro until it was too late. The highway was reportedly slick due to the rainfall, which may have made it more difficult for drivers to react in time to avoid collisions.
The fatal crash highlights the dangers of driving in severe weather, particularly during the night when visibility is already limited. The DPS has reminded drivers of the importance of exercising caution, especially during adverse weather conditions. This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with traveling on highways during poor weather, particularly when other vehicles are stranded or disabled on the road.
The investigation into the crash will continue as authorities gather more information. The DPS is looking into various factors that could have played a role in the accident, including the severity of the weather, the condition of the road, and whether the semitrailer was traveling too fast for the conditions. Authorities are also considering whether the disabled vehicle was visible enough to oncoming traffic, given the circumstances.
At this point, no charges have been filed, and the authorities are focusing on determining the exact cause of the crash. They are urging anyone who may have witnessed the accident or who may have information about the events leading up to the collision to come forward. The DPS has provided contact information for individuals who wish to report any tips or relevant details that could assist in the investigation.
In the aftermath of the crash, local residents and officials have expressed their condolences to the families of Bryan Ordaz-Reyes and Braxton Amador. The two young men were well-known in their community, and their untimely deaths have left a deep impact on their families and friends. Support has poured in from across Dumas, with many people remembering the victims fondly and offering prayers for their loved ones.
The deadly accident also raises concerns about road safety during inclement weather, particularly on major highways like I-40. The stretch of highway where the crash occurred is frequently traveled by both local residents and long-distance drivers, making it an area of concern when conditions worsen. Local officials have called for increased awareness and caution when driving in bad weather, stressing the importance of slowing down and staying alert when rain, fog, or other hazards reduce visibility.
As the investigation progresses, law enforcement officials are committed to providing updates to the public and ensuring that the circumstances surrounding the crash are fully understood. The DPS is continuing to work closely with other agencies to gather all the facts and provide clarity on what led to the deaths of Bryan Ordaz-Reyes and Braxton Amador.
The loss of these two young men has left a void in their community, and many people are grieving their untimely deaths. The families of the victims have asked for privacy during this difficult time but have expressed their gratitude for the support they have received from friends, family, and the community. Memorial services are expected in the coming days, and the community is coming together to honor the lives of Bryan and Braxton, who will be remembered for their kind hearts and the impact they had on those around them.