2 Occupants Fatally Injured, 1 Airlifted after Wrong-Way Accident near Interstate 20

REEVES COUNTY, TX (April 9, 2024) – Thursday night, Juan Lopez and Luis Zamora were killed in a head-on crash on State Highway 17.

Around 8:15 p.m., police responded to the scene about two miles south of Interstate 20.

Officers say 42-year-old Laura Archuleta was driving a Ford F-150 north on the highway and attempted to pass a semi-truck. However, the Ford was unable to safely pass and struck an oncoming GMC Sierra head-on in the southbound lanes.

Due to the extent of injuries sustained, medics pronounced 22-year-old Lopez, of Rio Grande City and 40-year-old Zamora, of Rio Grande City dead at the scene. Meanwhile, crews airlifted Archuleta to UMC in Lubbock with serious injuries.

Following preliminary duties, officers say Zamora was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

Emergency personnel shut down the surrounding area for a brief time during cleanup and preliminary duties. Those with further information regarding the accident are encouraged to contact local authorities as soon as possible.

At this time, an active investigation to determine further information is still currently underway. Once available, more details will be provided about the fatal head-on crash on State Highway 17.

In this sorrowful time, the Sweet James team would like to extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of Juan Elisandro Lopez and Luis Carlos Zamora.

It is important to have strong legal representation on your side when losing a loved one in a car crash. Reach out to the wrongful death lawyers at Sweet James today. With 20 years of experience in the field, we know what it takes to help you win your case. Call us at 1-844-363-7713 for a free and confidential case evaluation.