Wreck in Construction Zone Near Houston County Airport Kills One

A wreck involving an 18-wheeler and several vehicles on Highway 7 East of Crockett has killed one and injured several others.

TxDOT currently has one lane of SH 7 open to traffic with a pilot vehicle. This means that traffic is being escorted through the crash/work zone. For instance, the pilot vehicle will lead traffic eastward through the crash zone, and then turn around and escort westbound traffic.

The updated press release from the Texas Department of Transportation follows:

Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) and other crews are cleaning up a SH 7 work zone following a multiple vehicle crash with one fatality east of Crockett in Houston County.
According to TxDOT, the crash occurred just before 11 a.m. near the Houston County Airport when an 18-wheeler entered the work zone and hit four passenger vehicles stopped at a flagging station. The occupant of the first passenger vehicle hit by the truck died at the scene. At least three people, including a minor from one of the vehicles, were transported to the hospital by helicopter. The flagger, who works for Pinto Construction, was also injured.
TxDOT and its contractor are conducting traffic control and clean up efforts, along with wrecker service personnel, at the scene. Motorists are reminded to use caution when traveling through the area once it opens, as crews will be working.
Remember to slow down and pay attention when driving through all work zones. Traffic fines double when workers are present.