December 21, 2021 - U.S. Highway 96 North near CR 3774 was the scene of a major two-vehicle crash involving a Shelby County Sheriff's patrol unit and an SUV.
(Update): According to Texas Department of Public Safety State Trooper Taylor Buster, at 3:43am a black 2016 Chevrolet Tahoe driven owned by the Shelby County Sheriff's Department and driven by Joshua Anders, 30, of San Augustine was southbound on U.S. 96 North near CR 3774 when Anders fell asleep.
The Tahoe crossed over into the northbound traffic lane and struck a grey 1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee driven by Calvin Estes, 24, of Tenaha. The Jeep continued northbound and flipped several times as it left the roadway to the right and finally came to rest on the driver's side of the vehicle.
On the southbound side of the roadway the Tahoe came to rest in some brush.
Center Fire Department personnel worked with Jaws of Life to extricate the driver, a man, and eventually were succesful in assisting Emergency Medical Services personnel in moving the man to a waiting ambulance.
Family members looked on in desperation as the fire personnel worked to rescue their family member. They were both relieved and appreciative of the fire fighters for freeing him.
The deputy was transported by ambulance to Nacogdoches Medical Center - Shelby Emergency Department for treatment of possible injuries. The driver of the Jeep was transported by ambulance to LSU Hospital in Shreveport for treatment of his injuries.
Both vehicles were towed from the scene.
Center Police Department officers were on scene assisting in traffic control.
This crash remains under investigation by the Texas Department of Public Safety.
