A deadly two-vehicle collision early Thursday morning has left one man dead and prompted an investigation by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
The crash occurred at approximately 5:57 a.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025, near mile marker 438 on U.S. Highway 277 and FM 191, roughly 18 miles west of Carrizo Springs in rural Dimmit County. The stretch of roadway, heavily traveled by commuters and commercial vehicles, is known for its sharp curves and limited visibility in the early morning hours.
According to DPS investigators, a 2017 gray Kia Sorrento, driven by 25-year-old Oscar Rodriguez III of Eagle Pass, Texas, was traveling eastbound when Rodriguez reportedly lost control while approaching a curve. The vehicle crossed the center dividing strip and veered into the westbound lane, directly into the path of an oncoming 2023 white Dodge Ram pickup truck.
The impact was a head-on collision, causing catastrophic damage to the Kia. Emergency responders, including DPS troopers, Dimmit County deputies, and local EMS, rushed to the scene. Despite life-saving efforts, Rodriguez was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries. Authorities confirmed that he was the sole occupant of the Kia.
The driver of the Dodge Ram, who has not been publicly identified, escaped the crash without injury. He remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators.
The roadway was temporarily closed in both directions for several hours as crews worked to clear debris and officials reconstructed the accident scene. Traffic was rerouted until the highway was reopened later in the morning.
DPS officials say the crash remains under investigation. It is not yet clear whether speed, distraction, fatigue, or other contributing factors played a role in the collision. Toxicology reports are pending as part of the standard investigative process.
Rodriguez, a resident of Eagle Pass, was just 25 years old. Family members were notified of his death shortly after the crash. Friends and loved ones described him as a young man whose life was tragically cut short.
Authorities are reminding drivers to exercise caution, especially on rural highways like U.S. 277, where high speeds and sharp turns increase the risk of serious collisions.