Wood County, TX — April 9, 2025, Deputy Melissa Pollard was killed following an 18-wheeler accident that happened along State Highway 37.
Preliminary reports indicate that the crash happened northeast of Quitman at the intersection of Highway 37 and F.M. 14.

According to officials, Deputy Melissa Pollard was in a police cruiser going along the highway. Up ahead, an 18-wheeler was making a left turn, and the cruiser somehow crashed into the back of the trailer.
Due to the collision, Deputy Pollard was killed. There were no other reported injuries. At this time, additional details about the accident are unavailable.
Commentary by Attorney Michael Grossman
I find people are generally quick to jump to conclusions when it comes to rear-end collisions. However, a deadly truck wreck is likely to present unique challenges. That makes it even more important to ensure investigators are considering things from all angles.
Have they looked at the condition of the road? Did they examine the vehicles for defects or mechanical issues? Have they pulled Engine Control Module (ECM) data, which could show things like speeding, steering, and braking inputs? Have they looked at nearby businesses or residences to see if someone’s security camera caught the accident on video?
Likely or not, these factors can shed light on important aspects of a crash. Perhaps those factors will lead to complex legal avenues, or they’ll simply help to ensure the family knows all the facts. Either way, a family shouldn’t have to sit around waiting for answers. They should have all the confidence in the world that the crash is being handled by experienced, well-equipped investigators. Is that happening here?