DPS Investigates Two-Vehicle Fatal Crash Outside Joaquin

December 15, 2018 - The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) investigated a two-vehicle crash last night, about one half mile west of Joaquin, involving a commercial motor vehicle.

The preliminary crash investigation indicates at approximately 9pm, a 1999 Chevrolet pickup turned right onto US 84 from FM 2428 to travel east. The driver of the pickup reportedly drove over into the westbound lane of US 84 and struck a 2019 Mack truck-tractor semi-trailer head-on.

The driver of the Chevrolet is identified as Jose Ruiz-Hernandez, 43, from Joaquin. Ruiz-Hernandez was pronounced deceased at the scene of the crash by Shelby County Justice of the Peace Judge. Three child passengers traveling with Ruiz-Hernandez, ages two, five and 10 were transported to Nacogdoches Medical Center - Shelby Emergency Department for treatment.

The driver of the truck-tractor is identified as James Small Jr., 47, from Shreveport, Louisiana. Small was also transported to Nacogdoches Medical Center - Shelby Emergency Department where he was reportedly treated and released.

This crash remains under investigation. No additional information is available at this time.