HARTLEY COUNTY, TX (09/04/2017) — An El Paso man was killed Monday evening after his motorcycle was struck by another vehicle on U.S. Route 54.
According to The Texas Department of Public Safety, the fatal crash occurred at around 9:08 p.m. near the intersection of RM-3296 and US-54, approximately 34 miles southwest of Dalhart.
33-year-old Munguia Gonzalez, of Stratford, was reportedly driving a 2005 Dodge pickup truck (towing a gooseneck trailer) southbound on Ranch-to-Market Road 3296. Officials believe Gonzalez stopped at the stop sign at US-54, but proceeded into the intersection when it was unsafe to do so.
As Gonzalez attempted to make a left turn onto US-54, his truck collided with a westbound 1991 Kawasaki motorcycle ridden by 35-year-old Dustin Grilliot, of El Paso.
Dustin Grilliot was pronounced deceased at the scene by Hartley County Justice of the Peace Beth Bezner Moore. The driver of the pickup, as well as his three passengers, were reportedly uninjured in the crash.
Commentary
We’re sad to report that another life has been lost due to a completely preventable traffic accident, and our thoughts go out to those affected. From what’s been reported, it appears that this fatal accident occurred due to simple negligence. DPS reported that Grilliot was wearing a helmet, road conditions were dry, and that no other vehicles were involved. Using Google StreetView, I can’t see any line-of-sight issues which could have played a role either.
While nothing can undo the harm that has been caused as a result of this crash, we sincerely hope that a thorough investigation is conducted to determine what exactly led to this accident. While police have not yet indicated whether or not the at-fault driver will face criminal charges, the victim’s family always has the option of pursuing a wrongful death lawsuit.
Please use this tragedy as a reminder to ALWAYS LOOK TWICE for motorcyclists. A little bit of extra precaution could save a life!
