San Antonio, TX, January 23, 2026
A tragic accident occurred in San Antonio involving a minivan and an 18-wheeler carrying jet fuel. The early morning crash resulted in one death and three critical injuries. Emergency responders worked swiftly to address the scene, leading to a temporary road closure. The incident has brought attention to the importance of road safety in the area.
San Antonio, TX – Fatal 18-Wheeler Crash on Wetmore Road
San Antonio, TX – A tragic accident occurred early Thursday morning, January 22, 2026, on Wetmore Road near Loop 410, resulting in one death and three critical injuries. The incident involved a minivan colliding with the rear of an 18-wheeler carrying jet fuel.
Details of the Accident
At approximately 6:00 a.m., a minivan driven by a 58-year-old man rear-ended the 18-wheeler. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. Three of the four passengers in the minivan were transported to a local hospital in critical condition, while the fourth passenger sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the 18-wheeler was unharmed. The crash led to the closure of Wetmore Road between Northeast Loop 410 Frontage Road and Broadway Street, near the San Antonio International Airport, which reopened around 9:30 a.m. following the investigation. The San Antonio Police Department is continuing to investigate the cause of the crash.
Background Information
Wetmore Road is a significant thoroughfare in San Antonio, connecting various neighborhoods and providing access to the San Antonio International Airport. The area near Loop 410 is known for heavy traffic, especially during morning commute hours. The San Antonio Police Department and other emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene, working diligently to clear the wreckage and reopen the road to traffic. This incident has raised concerns about road safety in the area, prompting discussions about potential improvements to mitigate similar accidents in the future.
Safety Measures and Community Response
In response to this and other recent traffic incidents, the City of San Antonio has been actively working on the Vision Zero Action Plan, aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries. The plan focuses on enhancing road safety through infrastructure improvements, public education, and enforcement of traffic laws. Community members have expressed their condolences to the victims’ families and have advocated for increased safety measures on local roads.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Wetmore Road near Loop 410, San Antonio, TX |
| Time of Incident | Approximately 6:00 a.m., January 22, 2026 |
| Vehicles Involved | Minivan and 18-wheeler carrying jet fuel |
| Casualties | 1 dead, 3 critically injured, 1 with non-life-threatening injuries |
| Road Closure | Wetmore Road closed between Northeast Loop 410 Frontage Road and Broadway Street; reopened around 9:30 a.m. |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing by San Antonio Police Department |
| Safety Measures | City’s Vision Zero Action Plan focusing on eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What caused the fatal 18-wheeler crash on Wetmore Road?
The exact cause of the crash is under investigation by the San Antonio Police Department. Preliminary reports indicate that a minivan rear-ended an 18-wheeler carrying jet fuel, resulting in one death and three critical injuries.
Were there any hazardous materials involved in the accident?
Yes, the 18-wheeler was carrying jet fuel. However, there were no reports of a fuel spill or fire following the crash.
What is the current status of the injured passengers?
Three of the four passengers in the minivan were transported to a local hospital in critical condition. The fourth passenger sustained non-life-threatening injuries. The driver of the minivan was pronounced dead at the scene.
When did Wetmore Road reopen after the accident?
Wetmore Road reopened around 9:30 a.m. on January 22, 2026, after authorities completed their investigation and cleared the wreckage.
What is the Vision Zero Action Plan?
The Vision Zero Action Plan is an initiative by the City of San Antonio aimed at eliminating traffic fatalities and serious injuries. It focuses on improving road safety through infrastructure enhancements, public education, and enforcement of traffic laws.
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