AMARILLO, TX (July 18, 2025) – Leonard Franco, a 31-year-old man, was killed early Thursday morning when his SUV collided with a semi-trailer near I-40 in Amarillo, according to the Amarillo Police Department.
Accident Details: The crash occurred around 1:00 a.m. on Lakeside Drive, near the exit from the Pilot truck stop. Police say a semi-truck was pulling onto Lakeside Drive when Franco’s Jeep Liberty struck the side of the trailer.
Franco was ejected from the SUV during the crash. Amarillo police officers witnessed the collision and immediately began life-saving efforts. Emergency responders with the fire department took over, but Franco was pronounced dead at the scene.
An autopsy has been ordered as part of the investigation.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: Amarillo police are investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash. Incidents involving passenger vehicles striking semi-trailers often raise questions about visibility, trailer positioning, driver attentiveness, and roadway lighting.
In fatal trucking collisions, surviving family members may have legal options to pursue wrongful death claims to cover funeral expenses, lost financial support, and emotional damages if negligence contributed to the crash.
We extend our condolences to the family and loved ones of Leonard Franco during this difficult time.
Source: ABC 7 Amarillo