Head-on crash that killed driver caused by foggy conditions, Fort Bend Co. deputies say

Courtney Fischer Image
Monday, April 5, 2021
Fog plays role in deadly head-on crash in Fort Bend Co.
Authorities don't expect to charge the driver who tried to pass a vehicle on a two-lane highway before hitting and killing another driver.

FORT BEND COUNTY, Texas (KTRK) -- Officials believe a driver will not be charged after a major head-on crash Monday morning left another driver dead.

According to the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office, a driver in a black Lexus was driving southbound, attempting to pass another vehicle on FM-359, a two-lane highway, near Settegast Ranch Road just after 5 a.m.

The Lexus crashed head-on into a silver Mazda, which was traveling northbound, causing the Mazda to burst into flames, deputies say. The driver of the Mazda was pronounced dead at the scene.

Deputies believe the crash was caused by foggy conditions, stating that the Lexus driver could not see the oncoming driver when attempting to pass.

The driver of the Lexus was flown to Memorial Hermann and is expected to survive.

Deputies say they do not expect the Lexus driver to be charged since it was legal to pass in the area, and it appears the foggy conditions caused the tragic accident.

"No signs of intoxication, drugs or alcohol," Trooper Derrick Williams said. "In addition to that, we don't anticipate any other charges for that matter."

LISTEN: Trooper Derrick Williams explains how foggy weather conditions contributed to a fatal head-on crash Monday morning.

The driver of the car the Lexus attempted to pass was the individual who called 911 after the crash, deputies say.

Fort Bend County deputies are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash.

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