CLAY COUNTY, TX — A tragic accident on Friday, June 6, claimed the life of 42-year-old Cara Chitwood, a Henrietta resident, after she was fatally struck by a vehicle along U.S. Highway 287 near North Butler Road.
According to Texas Department of Public Safety Sergeant Juan Gutierrez, preliminary findings indicate that Chitwood had been driving a 2015 Honda Accord northwest on U.S. 82 when the vehicle began experiencing mechanical issues. The car came to a stop on the left shoulder of the highway but was partially extending into the left travel lane.
Chitwood exited the vehicle and stood in the left lane to inspect the problem when she was struck by an oncoming Dodge Ram, which was also traveling northwest in the left lane. The impact fatally injured Chitwood, who was pronounced dead at the scene.
Authorities say the investigation into the incident remains ongoing, and no further information has been released at this time.
The collision serves as a tragic reminder of the dangers associated with roadside emergencies on high-speed highways. Motorists are urged to exercise extreme caution during vehicle breakdowns and to move off the roadway entirely whenever possible.