East Texas Man Passes Away in One-Vehicle Accident Near Center

A tragic one-vehicle accident claimed the life of a motorist Saturday morning in Shelby County.

According to a press release from the Texas Department of Public Safety, the incident took place on State Highway 96, about one and one-half miles north of Center. Troopers investigating the one-vehicle fatality crash report that the crash took place this morning, August 5, around 9:10 a.m.

The preliminary crash investigation indicates a 2023 Dodge passenger car was traveling north and failed to drive in a single lane and drove off the roadway where it struck a tree. The driver was ejected from the vehicle. There was no report as to whether the driver was wearing a seat belt.

The driver is identified as 45-year-old Michael Whisenant from Center. He was pronounced deceased at the scene by a Shelby County Justice of the Peace.

This crash is under investigation. Additional information is not available at this time.

Please keep Michael Whisenant along with his friends and family in your thoughts and prayers.