Lubbock, Texas (November 3, 2025) — Authorities have identified the two drivers seriously injured in a crash early Monday morning in South Lubbock as 64-year-old David Chavera and 53-year-old Isabel Torres. According to the Lubbock Police Department’s Major Crash Investigation Unit, the collision occurred after a semi-truck crossed into oncoming traffic and struck a pickup truck head-on.
Incident Details: The crash occurred in the 7000 block of Southeast Drive, near Southeast Loop 289. Investigators said Chavera, who was driving the semi-truck, veered into opposing lanes for reasons still under investigation and collided with a pickup driven by Torres. Both vehicles sustained heavy front-end damage.
Emergency responders arrived to find both drivers seriously injured. Chavera was transported by ambulance to Covenant Medical Center, while Torres was taken to University Medical Center (UMC) for treatment. Their current conditions have not been disclosed. No additional occupants were reported in either vehicle.
Investigation: The Lubbock Police Department’s Major Crash Investigation Unit is leading the inquiry into what caused the semi-truck to cross into the opposite lane. Investigators are examining roadway evidence, including skid marks, vehicle positioning, and debris distribution, to determine whether speed, distraction, or a mechanical malfunction contributed to the crash.
In serious truck collisions, investigators typically review the semi-truck’s electronic logging device (ELD) and data recorder to assess steering input, speed, and braking patterns leading up to impact. They may also inspect the vehicle for brake or tire issues and evaluate driver fatigue, medical conditions, or impairment as possible factors. Additionally, investigators will collect witness statements and review nearby surveillance footage to reconstruct the precise sequence of events.
Legal Considerations: Truck accident cases can involve multiple liable parties, including the trucking company, maintenance contractors, or vehicle manufacturers. Crashes involving commercial trucks often result in severe injuries due to the vehicles’ size and momentum. Under Texas law, truck drivers and their employers are required to operate with heightened caution and comply with federal safety regulations regarding rest periods, load limits, and vehicle maintenance.
If the investigation determines that negligence, such as fatigue, distraction, or a maintenance failure, caused the crash, both Chavera and Torres may have grounds to pursue personal injury claims to recover compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
I extend my best wishes for recovery to David Chavera and Isabel Torres as they continue to receive medical care following this serious collision.
Source: Everything Lubbock