MIDLAND COUNTY, Texas — Authorities are investigating a fatal vehicle-pedestrian collision that claimed the life of a 69-year-old man early Thursday morning. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the tragic incident occurred around 1:30 a.m. near the intersection of Business 20 and County Road 1247.
Preliminary reports indicate that the crash involved a 2023 Ford Transit van driven by 30-year-old Omar Quintero of El Paso. Investigators said Quintero was traveling west in the left lane of Business 20 and was preparing to merge right when the collision occurred. At the same time, a pedestrian identified as Charles Hall, of Austin, was walking in the roadway. For reasons still under review, Hall entered the traffic lane and was unable to move out of the vehicle’s path in time.
DPS officials said the van struck Hall, causing fatal injuries. Emergency responders arrived quickly but were unable to save him, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Quintero was not injured, and no other vehicles were involved. Authorities temporarily closed part of the roadway while investigators documented evidence and reconstructed the crash to determine contributing factors such as speed, lighting, and visibility.
As of Thursday afternoon, no citations or charges had been issued. The investigation remains ongoing, with troopers reviewing witness statements, vehicle data, and scene evidence to confirm the sequence of events. Officials stated that there are no indications of impairment or foul play, and the incident appears to be a tragic accident.
Pedestrian-related crashes continue to be a serious safety concern across Texas. Law enforcement officials urge pedestrians to use sidewalks when available, wear reflective clothing at night, and avoid walking in active traffic lanes. Drivers are also reminded to remain vigilant, especially on dark or rural roadways where visibility can be limited.
Residents of Midland County expressed sorrow following the news, offering condolences to Hall’s family. Authorities said the Texas Department of Public Safety will release additional information once the final report is complete. The incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road awareness and caution for both motorists and pedestrians alike.