November 7, 2016 - Information has been released relating to the three-vehicle crash on State Highway 7 West which resulted in a fatality on Monday, November 7, 2016.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) troopers responded to and investigated a three vehicle crash on SH 7 about one mile East of Nacogdoches County, at approximately 4:30 p.m.
The preliminary crash investigation indicates a 2002 Ford F-150 XL pickup truck was traveling West on SH 7 when it crossed the center divider and struck a 2016 Chevrolet delivery van in the side. In an attempt to avoid the collision the driver of the Chevrolet swerved to the right and subsequently struck a 2012 Ford Escape SUV.
After the initial crash the Chevrolet and Ford Escape drove off the roadway and into the eastbound ditch where the Chevrolet overturned. The Ford pickup drove off the highway into westbound ditch where it caught fire and burned.
The driver of the Ford pickup was identified as Steven Dennis, 51, from Center. Dennis was pronounced deceased at the scene of the crash by Justice of the Peace Marla Denby.
Elzie Raymond, 40, from Lufkin was identified as the driver of the Chevrolet utility van. Raymond was transported to Nacogdoches Memorial hospital with unknown injuries.
The driver of the Ford Escape was not reported as being injured and was identified as Colleen Doggett, 73, from Center.
This crash remains under investigation by Texas DPS Trooper Taylor Buster who was assisted at the scene by DPS Trooper John Hallenbeck.
West Shelby Volunteer Firemen worked traffic control at the scene for several hours. Shelby County Sheriff's Department Deputies also were on scene to assist.
Dennis was transported from the scene by Watson & Sons Funeral Home.
