Daniel Hernandez Obituary, Death – On Friday night, a fatal single-vehicle accident in Ector County claimed the life of an Odessa resident after his truck went airborne and rolled over. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) confirmed the incident occurred around 10:30 p.m. at the intersection of North Wire Line Road and Loop 338.

Authorities identified the victim as 30-year-old Daniel Hernandez of Odessa. According to DPS’ preliminary findings, Hernandez was driving a 2002 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 southbound on North Wire Line Road, heading toward Loop 338. For reasons still under investigation, he reportedly failed to maintain his lane, drifting to the right side of the roadway.

Investigators said the truck struck an embankment located on the west side of Loop 338. The impact caused the vehicle to launch into the air before rolling over multiple times. During the violent crash, Hernandez was ejected from the truck. Officials confirmed he was not wearing a seatbelt at the time.

Emergency responders arrived quickly, but Hernandez was pronounced dead at the scene by authorities. The DPS emphasized that the absence of a seatbelt likely contributed to the severity of his injuries and may have played a role in his ejection from the vehicle.

The crash site was secured while investigators examined the scene, taking photographs, collecting debris, and documenting the position of the vehicle and other evidence. Traffic in the area was temporarily disrupted as crews worked to clear the wreckage and conduct the investigation.

Officials have not yet determined the exact cause of the crash, but potential contributing factors—such as driver distraction, speed, or impairment—are being reviewed as part of the ongoing investigation. The DPS stated that no additional information is available at this time and that findings will be released when the investigation is complete.

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of wearing seatbelts, regardless of trip length or familiarity with the roads. According to traffic safety experts, seatbelt use is one of the most effective measures for preventing fatalities and serious injuries in crashes, especially those involving rollovers.

In rural Texas, road conditions and nighttime driving hazards can increase the risk of accidents. Officials continue to urge drivers to stay alert, maintain control of their vehicles, and use seatbelts at all times. The DPS also advises motorists to be cautious at intersections, especially when approaching at higher speeds, to reduce the risk of losing control.

For now, the Ector County community is left mourning the loss of Daniel Hernandez as family, friends, and neighbors await more details about what led to the tragic accident. Investigators hope their findings will provide answers and, ultimately, help prevent similar incidents in the future.