Victim in US 231 SUV vs. 18-wheeler crash identified - WTVM.com-Columbus, GA News Weather & Sports

Victim in US 231 SUV vs. 18-wheeler crash identified

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Authorities work the scene of an SUV vs. 18-wheeler crash Monday morning. Authorities work the scene of an SUV vs. 18-wheeler crash Monday morning.
Troopers say this SUV crossed the median and struck an oncoming commercial truck. Troopers say this SUV crossed the median and struck an oncoming commercial truck.
The engine of the SUV was thrown from the wreckage and came to rest in the roadway. The engine of the SUV was thrown from the wreckage and came to rest in the roadway.
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MONTGOMERY CO., AL (WSFA) -

Alabama State Troopers are identifying the victim of a fatal crash Monday that involved an SUV and an 18-wheeler.

Lige Hester, 65, was killed when his 2005 Ford Escape SUV crossed the median and crashed into a 2012 Kenworth  tractor-trailer around 10:50am near the 170 mile marker along U.S. Highway 231 in Montgomery County.

Authorities Hester was traveling northbound when he crossed the median and struck the southbound 18-wheeler. Hester was pronounced dead on the scene. The 18-wheeler driver and passengers in a third vehicle that struck debris were not injured.

Investigators say preliminary reports indicate Hester was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. 

Trooper spokesman Sgt. Steve Jarrett said there is reported video of the fatal crash showing Hester's SUV crossing the median. He said he was not sure if it would be released, but it will be part of the investigation.

A second crash happened a short time after the initial crash involving two northbound vehicles as a result of traffic stopping for the crash. One vehicle rear-ended the second. There were no injuries.

Due to diesel fuel leakage, the Alabama Department of Environmental Management was called to the scene. Traffic was rerouted into the opposite lane while authorities processed the scene and crews worked to clear the wreckage from the roadway.

Troopers say the roadway re-opened around 6pm.

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