A truck driver was killed early Tuesday morning after overturning on Interstate 35 near San Marcos, Texas. It happened at mile marker 198, near the Hays/Comal County line.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the 58-year-old truck driver, Samuel Bears of Fort Worth, became distracted while holding a cigarette lighter. Officials say he momentarily took his eyes off the road, then swerved to avoid hitting a vehicle in front of him. He then struck a concrete barrier, causing the rig to overturn.
Bears died at the scene of the crash. He was the only person involved.
The truck’s fuel tank ruptured, causing a minor diesel spill in the area and a temporary road closure. It has since reopened.