Highway 290 now open after fatal wreck

HOUSTON Houston police say the victim was driving a blue Scion westbound on Highway 290 and was stopped on the right shoulder of the freeway to exchange information with the driver of a black Dodge Ram 350 after the vehicles had been involved in a minor accident.

The victim was in the passenger seat of his Scion retrieving insurance information when his vehicle was struck by an 18-wheeler. The Scion then struck the Dodge truck and sideswiped a rental moving truck. The 59-year-old victim was ejected from his Scion and died.

All three vehicles traveled more than 100 feet before coming to a stop.

The driver of the 18-wheeler was interviewed and evaluated at the scene, according to police. He was taken into custody after it was discovered he was wanted on outstanding warrants out of the Harris County Precinct One Constable's Office.

There are no indications alcohol was a factor in the accident. Police say the investigation is continuing.

The highway reopened around 4:20pm. All westbound lanes had been closed at 43rd St. and vehicles were being diverted off the freeway at 43rd, then allowed to re-enter the freeway after Bingle.

Motorists were also urged to use either I-10 West to Beltway 8 or I-45 North to SH 249 as alternate routes.

Check real-time traffic information in our ABC13.com traffic section