Jerry Wayne Newton Killed in Hit-and-run Accident in Rhome, TX
UPDATE (March 16, 2023): Further information from police clarified details about the suspect driver in this accident. It appears the vehicle was a four-door pickup, believed to be a Ford F-250 or F-350, that is dark or grey. The trailer it was hauling was a black, two-axle gooseneck trailer that was hauling what may be an asphalt roller with a tall bar behind the driver's seat.
Especially since this may have been a road rage incident, I encourage everyone to check out local media such as Star Telegram for photos of this suspect vehicle. It's likely very identifiable, and I feel it's just a matter of time before the community is able to help this man's loved ones get answers and a chance at closure. Just as important, though, their vigilance may prove crucial in getting a dangerous driver off the road.
Rhome, TX -- March 10, 2023, Jerry Wayne Newton was killed after an accident where a flatbed hit his motorcycle, then left the scene.
Authorities said that the incident happened at around 7:15 a.m. along US 287 off the corner of Pioneer Parkway. In initial reports, officials said that 55-year-old Jerry Wayne Newton was on a motorcycle traveling along US 287. Somehow, a collision occurred with a flatbed pickup truck hauling a trailer. That truck then left the scene. Newton died as a result of the collision.
Authorities say that the incident may have been a road rage incident, but they continue to search for the suspect truck. They described it as dark or silver pulling a trailer that had orange on the bottom, a water tank on the trailer, and a tarp on the tank. They say that the driver was a white man with an orange vest, and one news outlet said the suspect was "carrying a medical bag." It also appears there may have been another truck traveling with the first one that also left the scene. These details remain under investigation.
If nothing else, I am at least glad to see there are leads to go on that the police have made public so the community can help to find this driver. A hit-and-run is awful enough, but the thought this may have been intentional is truly disturbing. But when the community is able to put their attention and effort to good use, something often comes to light that helps authorities locate these drivers. I remain hopeful that will happen here so authorities can find out what happened here and what consequences are appropriate for whoever was involved in a man losing his life.
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