Authorities say a blue International tractor trailer truck was traveling westbound on the Katy Freeway when the driver failed to control his speed and struck a white Peterbilt big rig transporting sporting goods in the rear. The second truck then lost control and flipped onto its side while the other truck, which was transporting hand soap and deodorant, caught fire. The fiery crash killed the first driver.
"We still don't know. We just know according to statements, one of the 18-wheelers struck the other 18-wheeler from behind and that's what caused the crash," said Lt. Larry Satterwhite with the Houston Police Department.
The driver of the front vehicle escaped with only bumps and bruises. The driver of the striking rig died on impact. His identity hasn't been released.
The police investigation shut down all outbound lanes on the Katy Freeway at Eldridge for hours. It has since been reopened.
