Victor Lamar Evans II Obituary, Death – Authorities have released the identity of a man who died in a wrong-way crash involving an 18-wheeler on Interstate 35 in north Austin last week. The Austin Police Department confirmed that 23-year-old Victor Lamar Evans II was pronounced dead at the scene following the collision, which occurred in the early hours of September 18.
According to police, the crash happened at approximately 2:16 a.m. in the 12300 block of northbound I-35 near Tech Ridge Boulevard. Evans was driving a sedan southbound in the northbound lanes of the highway when he collided with a commercial 18-wheeler as well as another sedan. The impact was fatal for Evans, who was pronounced dead at the scene. No other injuries were reported as a result of the crash.
Austin Police Department officials have emphasized that this incident marks the city’s 73rd fatal crash of 2025, bringing the total number of deaths on local roadways so far this year to 76. The high number of traffic fatalities has raised concerns about roadway safety and the ongoing risks associated with wrong-way driving, particularly during late-night and early-morning hours.
Investigators are urging anyone with information related to the crash to come forward. Tips can be provided by contacting Austin Police investigators at 512-974-8111. Additionally, members of the public can submit anonymous tips through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers website at austincrimestoppers.org or by calling 512-472-8477. Authorities believe that witness accounts or other relevant information may assist in clarifying the circumstances that led to the fatal collision.
Wrong-way crashes remain a significant safety concern on highways, as they often involve high speeds and leave drivers and passengers with minimal time to react. Investigators typically examine multiple factors in these cases, including driver behavior, impairment, fatigue, and roadway conditions. At this stage, police have not provided details regarding whether alcohol, drugs, or other factors contributed to Evans’ decision to drive in the wrong direction.
This fatal collision also highlights the dangers posed to commercial truck drivers. While the driver of the 18-wheeler was not reported to have sustained injuries, such accidents can have traumatic impacts, both physically and emotionally, on those operating large vehicles. Highway safety experts continue to stress the importance of vigilance and defensive driving to prevent such tragedies.
The Austin community has been reminded of the importance of roadway safety, particularly on busy interstate highways where high-speed travel and multiple lanes increase the risk of serious accidents. Authorities urge drivers to remain alert, adhere to posted signs, and immediately report any vehicles traveling in the wrong direction.
For the family and friends of Victor Lamar Evans II, the crash represents a devastating loss. Evans, just 23 years old, lost his life in a sudden and tragic event that serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of wrong-way driving. Law enforcement officials hope that the investigation will provide answers regarding the circumstances that led to the crash and that sharing information may prevent future incidents.
As the Austin Police Department continues its investigation, they will analyze evidence from the scene, review traffic camera footage if available, and interview any witnesses to piece together a complete understanding of the collision. Meanwhile, residents and highway users are urged to exercise caution, particularly during nighttime driving, when fatigue and reduced visibility can increase the risk of dangerous accidents.
In summary, the fatal crash on northbound I-35 near Tech Ridge Boulevard claimed the life of 23-year-old Victor Lamar Evans II, who was driving south in the northbound lanes when he struck an 18-wheeler and another sedan. No additional injuries were reported, and the crash remains under investigation, with police seeking public assistance.
