A devastating wrong-way collision on Houston’s Katy Freeway early Tuesday morning has claimed the lives of two people, including 38-year-old Jamar Champ, the estranged husband of reality TV star Masika Kalysha. The fiery crash shut down the eastbound lanes of I-10 for several hours as investigators worked to determine the cause of the deadly incident.
Details of the Fatal Crash
According to the Houston Police Department, the accident occurred shortly after midnight near the Washington/Westcott exit. Preliminary reports indicate that a BMW traveling west in the eastbound lanes of the freeway slammed head-on into a Tesla Cybertruck driven by Champ. The violent impact caused the BMW to erupt into flames, while the Cybertruck was pushed into a nearby semi-truck.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, but both drivers were tragically pronounced dead — Champ from injuries sustained in the collision, and the BMW driver, whose identity has not yet been released, at the scene. The semi-truck driver was not seriously injured.
HPD Sgt. Rebecca Dallas confirmed that investigators believe the BMW entered the freeway going the wrong direction. “We believe at this time that the BMW was headed westbound in the eastbound lanes, going the wrong way,” Sgt. Dallas stated. Despite multiple “Do Not Enter” and “Wrong Way” signs posted near the exit, the vehicle appears to have entered against traffic at that location.
Ongoing Safety Concerns
Local residents say wrong-way driving incidents are a recurring issue in the area. Truitt Maxwell, who lives nearby, told KHOU 11 he recently filmed a driver making the same dangerous turn onto Westcott from a gas station. “I said, ‘There’s a fatality waiting to happen.’ It seems a little pertinent at the moment,” Maxwell remarked, adding that he has repeatedly reported concerns about visibility and signage to city officials.
According to data from TxDOT, Harris County has seen a troubling number of wrong-way crashes over the past decade. Since 2015, there have been 111 fatalities and hundreds of injuries tied to such incidents, despite the installation of new warning systems, reflective markers, and signage. Authorities say an autopsy and toxicology report will help determine whether impairment played a role in Tuesday’s crash.
Remembering Jamar Champ
Family members have confirmed that Champ was driving the Cybertruck and have shared photos of him proudly standing beside the vehicle. Loved ones describe him as a devoted father, loyal friend, and vibrant personality who touched the lives of many. His sudden and tragic death has left his family and community in shock.
The crash has reignited urgent calls for enhanced safety measures along Houston’s freeways. As investigators continue their work, many are left mourning the loss of Jamar Champ and reflecting on the persistent dangers posed by wrong-way drivers on Texas roads.