A fatal traffic collision closed all westbound lanes of Interstate 20 at Highway 67 in Dallas County early Thursday morning, causing extensive traffic delays and diversions throughout the area. The Dallas County Sheriff's Office confirmed the fatality occurred in a crash reported around 6:15 a.m. on Thursday, June 26, 2025, at the Interstate 20 and Highway 67 interchange. Emergency responders worked for several hours to clear the scene and investigate the incident. All westbound I-20 lanes and northbound Highway 67 were completely shut down, with traffic being diverted at the Wheatland Road exit. The closure affected one of Dallas County's most heavily traveled corridors during the critical morning commute period. Interstate 20 westbound lanes reopened by approximately 9:30 a.m., though northbound Highway 67 remained closed for additional investigation and cleanup. Dallas County Sheriff's Office deputies led the investigation, with details regarding the specific nature of the crash, number of vehicles involved, and circumstances leading to the fatality not yet released to the public as the investigation continues.

Location and Infrastructure

The Interstate 20 and Highway 67 interchange represents a critical transportation junction in southern Dallas County, serving as a major connector between downtown Dallas and southwestern communities. Highway 67 has undergone significant infrastructure improvements, including a $60 million TxDOT project to widen the highway from Interstate 20 to Belt Line Road in Cedar Hill, adding new lanes in each direction and rebuilding multiple ramps. This intersection experiences heavy traffic volumes throughout the day, particularly during morning and evening rush hours, as commuters travel between Dallas, Cedar Hill, Duncanville, and other southwestern suburbs. The area is part of broader regional transportation planning efforts, including the proposed Loop 9 project that would create a six-lane frontage road system between US 67 and Interstate 35E through Dallas and Ellis counties. The intersection features multiple access points, on-ramps, and off-ramps that can create complex traffic patterns. Weather conditions, construction activities, and the high volume of both passenger and commercial vehicles using this corridor can contribute to challenging driving conditions, particularly during peak travel times.

Legal Rights and Considerations

Under Texas law, families affected by fatal traffic accidents have a two-year statute of limitations to file wrongful death claims, beginning from the date of death. Wrongful death actions in Texas may be brought by surviving spouses, children, or parents of the deceased, seeking compensation for various damages including medical expenses incurred before death, funeral costs, loss of financial support, and mental anguish. Texas wrongful death law covers deaths caused by "wrongful act, neglect, carelessness, unskillfulness, or default" of another party, which can include negligent driving, vehicle defects, or dangerous road conditions. In cases involving gross negligence or willful acts, exemplary (punitive) damages may also be available beyond compensatory damages. Insurance considerations typically involve multiple policies, including liability coverage from at-fault drivers, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and potentially commercial insurance if business vehicles were involved. Certain exceptions to the two-year limitation period may apply, such as when defendants or their negligence were unknown, in cases involving fraud, or when claimants suffer from mental or physical incapacity that prevents timely filing. Families should consult with experienced wrongful death attorneys promptly to preserve evidence, identify all potential liable parties, and ensure compliance with all legal deadlines.

Related Resources

Emergency Services:

• Dallas County Sheriff's Office: (214) 749-8641
• Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Dallas District: (214) 320-6100
• Dallas County Emergency Management: (214) 653-7949

Traffic Safety Resources:

• Texas Department of Transportation Traffic Safety Division
• Dallas County Traffic Safety Coalition
• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) Texas Office

Support Services:

• Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) North Texas Chapter
• Victim Services Dallas County District Attorney's Office: (214) 653-3600
• Texas Crime Victim Compensation Program: 1-800-983-9933
• Dallas County Mental Health Crisis Services: (214) 743-1340

Legal Resources:

• State Bar of Texas Attorney Referral Service: 1-800-252-9690
• Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code Chapter 71 (Wrongful Death Laws)
• Texas Transportation Code Traffic Regulations
• Dallas County Clerk's Office for legal filings: (214) 653-7131