Midland County, TX — February 25, 2025, Diana Salazar was killed and Rocky Lopez was injured in a multi-vehicle accident at about 7:30 p.m. on State Highway 349.

Authorities said a southbound 2007 Dodge Ram was trying to pass a 2022 Dodge Ram with a trailer when it bounced off the trailer and crashed head-on with a 2014 Toyota Corolla that has going north.

Toyota driver Diana Salazar, 35, died at the scene of the crash, while the driver of the older Dodge pickup, Rocky Lopez, 33, was hospitalized with serious injuries, according to authorities.

The other pickup driver was not injured.

Authorities have not released any additional information about the crash at this time.

Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman

When I read about a crash like this, my first thought is that those affected deserve clear answers about what happened. That may seem simple, but in my experience, multi-vehicle crashes — especially those involving passing maneuvers — are often more complex than they initially appear. To fully understand what led to this collision, three critical questions must be asked.

First, did authorities conduct a thorough investigation? Passing on a highway can be dangerous, particularly when large vehicles like pickups and trailers are involved. Did investigators examine whether the older Dodge Ram had enough space and time to pass safely? Were speed limits or road conditions a factor? Did the driver of the newer Dodge Ram with the trailer take any evasive action? A complete investigation should ensure that all these elements are analyzed to determine how the crash unfolded.

Second, has anyone considered whether a vehicle defect contributed to the crash? The 2007 Dodge Ram is an older model, meaning mechanical failures could have played a role. If the driver lost control, was it due to a steering, brake or tire failure? Additionally, did the trailer have any issues, such as improper attachment, lighting malfunctions or load shifts, that could have contributed to the initial impact? These questions are critical because defect-related crashes often go unnoticed unless someone makes a point to investigate them before the vehicles are repaired or discarded.

Finally, has all available electronic data been collected? All three vehicles likely have black boxes that can provide crucial data about speed, braking and steering input leading up to the crash. If retrieved, this data could help confirm whether the passing driver attempted to correct the vehicle before impact. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses or dashcam footage from other drivers could also provide valuable insight. Additionally, cell phone records should be reviewed to determine whether distraction played a role in the moments leading up to the crash.

At the end of the day, a person lost their life, and another was seriously injured. The least that can be done is to ensure a full and fair investigation that leaves no stone unturned. The only way to truly understand what happened — and to provide real answers to those affected — is by asking the right questions and ensuring that every possible piece of evidence is examined.