Kaufman County Crash: 15-Year-Old Kason McKellar Among Five Killed in Tragic I-20 Collision Involving Fatigued Truck Driver
A North Texas community is in deep mourning following a devastating multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 20 in Kaufman County that claimed the life of 15-year-old Kason McKellar, along with four other individuals, in one of the deadliest traffic incidents the region has seen in recent memory.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) confirmed the tragic events unfolded over the weekend when a commercial truck, allegedly operated by a fatigued driver, plowed into several vehicles that had slowed or stopped due to construction-related congestion near mile marker 503, just outside Terrell.
A Chain Reaction of Devastation
According to preliminary DPS reports, the commercial 18-wheeler was traveling eastbound on I-20 when it failed to reduce speed in time and struck the rear of a passenger vehicle occupied by a family from Forney, immediately triggering a chain reaction involving six vehicles. The immense force of the collision caused several vehicles to overturn or be crushed beneath the truck’s trailer.
Emergency responders from multiple agencies—including Kaufman County EMS, Terrell Fire Department, and DPS troopers—rushed to the chaotic scene, arriving to find debris strewn across the interstate, multiple vehicles engulfed in smoke, and injured survivors trapped in the wreckage.
Tragically, five people were pronounced dead at the scene, including 15-year-old Kason McKellar, a promising high school sophomore, athlete, and beloved member of the Forney community.
Others killed in the crash include:
-
A 38-year-old mother and her 10-year-old daughter traveling in a separate vehicle.
-
A retired couple from East Texas who were returning home from visiting family.
Investigation Points to Driver Fatigue
DPS investigators believe the commercial truck driver—whose name has not yet been publicly released—was operating the vehicle while fatigued, potentially in violation of federal hours-of-service regulations that limit how long truck drivers can remain behind the wheel without rest.
Eyewitnesses reported the truck never attempted to brake before the collision, and dash cam footage from a nearby motorist appears to support this account. The driver has been hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries and is currently under investigation. Charges are pending, and officials confirmed that toxicology results and electronic logbook data will play a central role in the final report.
Remembering Kason McKellar
Kason McKellar’s death has left a gaping hole in the hearts of classmates, teachers, teammates, and family members. The 15-year-old was described as a bright light—a dedicated student, a talented baseball player, and a fiercely loyal friend.
“Kason was the kind of kid who made everyone feel included,” said Coach Jeremy Hawkins of Forney High School, where Kason was a sophomore. “He was driven, respectful, and had dreams of playing college ball. He had a future filled with promise, and this loss is just immeasurable.”
The Forney Independent School District has announced that grief counselors will be available to students and staff throughout the week. A candlelight vigil is being organized by classmates and will be held at the high school’s baseball field, where Kason spent so many of his afternoons practicing.
Community Outpouring and Support
The tragic crash has united the community in sorrow and solidarity. Local churches have opened their doors for prayer services, and a GoFundMe page launched by family friends has already raised thousands of dollars to support funeral expenses and aid other families affected by the tragedy.
“We’re heartbroken,” one donor wrote. “No parent should have to bury their child. We’re praying for Kason’s family and for all who are hurting.”
Governor Greg Abbott issued a statement expressing condolences and emphasizing the importance of road safety, especially involving commercial vehicles.
“Our hearts are with the families and loved ones of those lost in this tragic incident. The State of Texas will do everything possible to support the investigation and ensure accountability,” the statement read.
Renewed Attention on Trucking Regulations
The deadly crash has also reignited debate over driver fatigue and commercial vehicle regulations, with advocates calling for stricter enforcement of federal rest guidelines and improved technology to prevent such incidents.
“This wasn’t an accident—it was preventable,” said Laura Martinez, director of the Texas chapter of Mothers Against Distracted Driving (MADD). “When commercial drivers are pushed beyond their limits, innocent people pay the price. We need better monitoring, more accountability, and safer roads.”
A Long Road Ahead
As the community of Kaufman County grapples with the magnitude of the loss, the investigation into what went wrong continues. For now, the focus remains on remembering the lives lost—especially that of a bright young teen who had his whole future ahead of him.
The Texas DPS urges anyone with information or footage of the incident to come forward to assist in the ongoing inquiry.
Funeral arrangements for Kason McKellar and other victims are expected to be announced in the coming days. Meanwhile, the stretch of I-20 where the crash occurred has reopened, but the emotional scar it has left behind will linger long after the highway is clear.