Arlington Police are continuing their investigation after a fatal incident on Wednesday where a vehicle collided with two barricades along I-20 near E. Loop 820, resulting in the death of a man.
According to police, they were alerted to the scene around 12:39 a.m. following multiple 911 calls reporting a possible pedestrian struck by vehicles on the roadway.
Officers arrived to find the remains of a man, yet to be identified, at the scene.
On Thursday, investigators spoke with the driver involved in the collision, who provided the name of the passenger.
The Tarrant County Medical Examiner’s Office will confirm the victim’s identity and notify his next of kin, according to a police spokesperson.
Initial reports suggest the driver swerved to avoid a car that abruptly pulled in front, leading to a collision with a road construction barricade on the left side of the highway, causing the driver to lose control of the Buick Lucerne.
As the vehicle crossed all lanes of traffic, the front passenger fell out, and the car subsequently collided with a concrete barrier on the right side of the highway.
Police noted that neither the driver nor the passenger were wearing seatbelts at the time of the incident.
Upon arrival of first responders, the driver was found outside of the vehicle. It is believed he either exited the car himself or was assisted by a bystander.
Louis Alexander, who witnessed the aftermath, recounted his experience of seeing a man in the middle of the highway and subsequently pulling over to assist alongside other witnesses.
He described encountering a distraught woman who believed she had struck the pedestrian, adding to the chaotic scene.
Alexander expressed concerns about the safety of the construction zone where the incident occurred, though authorities currently have no indications linking the zone to the accident.
The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has safety measures in place for its Southeast Connector Project, including reduced speed limits and traffic control devices.
While TxDOT spokesperson Jay Proskovec expressed confidence in current safety measures, Alexander suggested additional lighting could enhance safety conditions, especially in low-visibility situations.
Reflecting on the incident, Alexander expressed sympathy for the families of those involved and emphasized the unpredictability and fragility of life.
He found solace in the belief that he and other bystanders played a role in responding to the situation as it unfolded, acknowledging the timing that placed them at the scene to help.
