Orlando Tello, Silvia Lemon Obituary, Death – A devastating three-vehicle crash in Scurry County on Monday night left two people dead and two others hospitalized with serious injuries, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The fatal collision occurred on Highway 180 around 9 p.m. and involved two semi-trucks and a pickup truck.
DPS investigators reported that one semi-truck was traveling westbound on Highway 180, with a pickup truck following behind. At the same time, another semi-truck traveling eastbound swerved across the road, veering into the path of the westbound vehicles. The eastbound truck collided with both the semi-truck and the pickup, causing a violent crash that led to multiple fatalities and injuries.
The occupants of the pickup truck, identified as 32-year-old Orlando Tello and 59-year-old Silvia Lemon, were both pronounced dead at the scene. According to DPS officials, Lemon had not been wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, while it remains uncertain whether Tello was restrained. Both victims were killed instantly due to the severity of the impact.
The two individuals in the eastbound semi-truck, identified as the vehicle that allegedly caused the wreck, sustained serious injuries. Emergency responders transported them to a nearby hospital, where they are receiving medical treatment. At this time, no further details about their condition have been released.
Authorities have not yet determined why the eastbound semi crossed into the westbound lanes, sparking the deadly collision. Investigators are examining all possible contributing factors, including driver fatigue, distraction, vehicle malfunction, or road conditions. The investigation will also include a review of the semi-truck’s systems, physical evidence from the crash site, and any witness accounts that may shed light on the sequence of events.
The crash has underscored the dangers associated with highway driving, particularly when large commercial vehicles are involved. Semi-trucks, due to their size and weight, can cause catastrophic damage in collisions, especially when they cross into opposing lanes of traffic. The incident has prompted renewed reminders from safety officials about the importance of defensive driving, seatbelt use, and vigilance on highways with heavy truck traffic.
Community members are mourning the loss of Orlando Tello and Silvia Lemon, whose lives were cut short in the tragic crash. Both victims were traveling together in the pickup truck that bore the brunt of the collision. Authorities have extended their condolences to the families of the deceased and assured the public that they are working diligently to piece together a complete picture of what caused the accident.
The DPS emphasized the role of seatbelts in potentially reducing fatalities in serious crashes. While it is unclear whether Tello was buckled in, officials confirmed Lemon was not wearing a seatbelt, which may have contributed to the fatal outcome. Safety officials continue to urge all drivers and passengers to wear seatbelts at all times, regardless of trip length or seating position in the vehicle.
As the investigation continues, law enforcement is focused on gathering evidence that could determine whether criminal charges or traffic citations will follow. Toxicology tests, driver logs, and vehicle inspections are expected to be part of the inquiry.
This tragic event serves as a grim reminder of the risks faced by motorists on Texas highways, particularly on stretches like Highway 180 that accommodate both commercial and passenger vehicles. While two people remain hospitalized with serious injuries, the deaths of Tello and Lemon mark a profound loss for their families and the Scurry County community. Authorities continue their efforts to establish the full cause of the crash and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
