CARROLLTON, TX (07/15/2015) — Police confirmed that 42-year-old Cleotilde Benitez was killed after a multi-vehicle crash on I-35E near the George Bush Turnpike.
Police have identified 42-year-old Cleotilde Benitez as the victim of a fatal crash on Interstate 35E near the George Bush Turnpike exit in Carrollton, Texas early Wednesday morning.
Reports indicate that at around 12:30 a.m. Gregory LaMaster, 43, was traveling northbound on I-35 in a black SUV when he crossed multiple lanes in order to take the exit. LaMaster collided with Benitez’s vehicle, which was the far right lane, and pinned it against the wall.
After the initial crash, a third vehicle was unable to stop and it also struck Benitez’s vehicle, causing it to flip. Benitez was pronounced deceased at the scene of the accident. A fourth vehicle was also involved in the wreckage, but no additional serious injuries were reported.
According to police, LaMaster fled the scene after the crash; however, he has since been found based on witness accounts and a license plate found at the scene.
LaMaster has been charged with failure to stop and render aid resulting in death, a 2nd degree felony.
