Update (February 10, 2025): Authorities have identified the person who was killed in this crash as Brandon Pitri, 40, of Magnolia.

Beaumont, TX — January 28, 2025, one person was killed and two others were injured in a truck accident at about 11:50 a.m. on U.S. Route 90.

Authorities said a tow truck crashed into a Piney Woods Sanitation garbage truck as both vehicles were traveling east near Rose Lane.

The tow truck driver was pronounced dead at the scene of the crash west of Beaumont, according to authorities. The truck has been carrying a minivan while it towed a car.

The driver and another person inside the garbage truck were hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries, authorities said.

Authorities have not released the names of those involved in the accident or any additional details about the crash.

The accident remains under investigation.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When two large vehicles, like a tow truck and a garbage truck, are involved in a collision, the consequences are often severe. This crash highlights the challenges of operating large vehicles safely on busy roads, and several important questions must be answered to determine what caused the collision and how similar crashes can be prevented.

One of the most critical aspects of the investigation will be understanding the sequence of events leading up to the crash. Was the tow truck traveling at a safe speed and maintaining a proper following distance? Did either vehicle attempt a sudden maneuver, such as a lane change or stop? Evidence such as dashcam footage, traffic camera recordings and any available witness statements will be essential in reconstructing what happened.

The condition and load of the tow truck will also be key areas of focus. Towing a car while carrying a minivan adds significant weight to a vehicle and can make it harder to stop or maneuver. Investigators should evaluate whether the tow truck was overloaded or improperly secured, as well as whether its brakes or other systems were functioning correctly. Maintenance records and a thorough inspection of the truck will be important for answering these questions.

The garbage truck’s role in the collision also requires scrutiny. Was the truck operating normally within its lane, or did it slow or stop unexpectedly? Garbage trucks frequently make frequent stops, and the presence of other vehicles on the road may have complicated the situation. Reviewing data from the garbage truck’s engine control module (ECM) and interviewing its occupants could provide valuable insight.

The condition of U.S. Route 90 near Rose Lane is another factor investigators must consider. Was the roadway well-maintained, with clear markings and adequate visibility? Narrow lanes, blind curves or debris on the road could have contributed to the collision. Additionally, traffic volume at the time of the crash should be examined, as congestion can increase the risk of crashes involving large vehicles.

Finally, investigators will likely evaluate whether environmental factors, such as weather or road surface conditions, played a role. Rain or slick pavement can reduce traction and stopping ability, particularly for large trucks carrying heavy loads.

This crash underscores the importance of careful operation, proper maintenance and safe loading practices for commercial vehicles. A comprehensive investigation into the actions of the drivers, the condition of the vehicles and the design of the roadway will be essential to determine the factors that led to this crash, so those affected by it may find some kind of closure.