A Dawson County sheriff’s deputy lost his life on April 22, 2025 in a tragic roadside accident on U.S. Highway 180, just outside Lamesa, Texas. The deputy, 42-year-old Jessie Perez, was struck by a tire that detached from a passing commercial truck while he was conducting a traffic stop.
The incident occurred just after 12:30 p.m. while Deputy Perez was citing the driver of a sand truck for an unsecured load. As he stood near the stopped vehicle, a passing box truck traveling in the opposite direction experienced a catastrophic equipment failure. One of the rear dual tires reportedly dislodged from the trailer and struck Deputy Perez with fatal force, resulting in his death.
The Dangers and Accountability Behind Wheel Separation Accidents
Equipment failures involving large commercial vehicles are among the most dangerous hazards on highways, and wheel separations rank high on that list. When a tire detaches from an 18-wheeler or box truck, it can instantly become a deadly projectile. These tires—often weighing over 100 pounds when including the wheel assembly—travel at highway speeds and can bounce unpredictably with devastating force. They have the potential to crush vehicles, penetrate windshields, or, as in this tragic case, fatally strike individuals outside their cars.
These incidents are not merely freak accidents—they are frequently preventable with proper diligence. Tires typically separate due to one of several root causes: loose or missing lug nuts, faulty wheel bearings, worn axle components, or inadequate torque during installation. In many cases, the underlying issue can be traced back to inadequate inspection routines or skipped maintenance procedures.
When commercial fleets cut corners on upkeep, or when drivers fail to perform necessary pre-trip checks, the risk of catastrophic equipment failure increases substantially. Additionally, if a wheel assembly defect existed when the part left the manufacturer, liability could extend to the maker or distributor of the component. That’s why investigators in cases like this focus heavily on maintenance logs, service histories, and manufacturer recalls.
Ultimately, wheel separation crashes point to a larger safety concern—one that demands accountability from commercial carriers, maintenance personnel, and manufacturers alike. Preventing these tragedies requires strict adherence to safety protocols, regular mechanical checks, and full compliance with federal transportation regulations. When those responsibilities are neglected, the consequences can be deadly for innocent people sharing the road.
Legal Rights in the Wake of Tragedy
When a law enforcement officer or any roadside worker is killed due to a commercial vehicle incident, surviving family members may have legal avenues to pursue. A personal injury or wrongful death lawyer can help investigate whether the commercial vehicle operator or the company responsible for maintaining the truck failed to meet safety obligations.
Improper maintenance, faulty parts, and failure to secure tires or wheels are serious violations of federal and state trucking regulations. If such negligence is found, the company or other third parties could be held accountable through a wrongful death claim.
Consult a Personal Injury Attorney
If you’ve lost a loved one due to a commercial vehicle accident or equipment failure, it’s important to seek legal guidance. Spagnoletti Law Firm has experience assisting families after serious roadway tragedies involving 18-wheelers and commercial fleets.
Our team of truck accident lawyers can evaluate the incident, coordinate with independent investigators, and determine whether you may have a claim against the responsible parties. There is no cost for an initial consultation, and no legal fees unless compensation is recovered on your behalf.
📞 Call us today at 713-804-9306 to learn more about your rights. We are here to help you seek justice and support through this difficult time.