What Caused the Head-On Collision on SH 207 in Armstrong County, TX?

Michael GrossmanJanuary 24, 2025 2 minutes

A head-on collision on SH 207 in Armstrong County left one person dead and three others injured late Sunday night. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, a southbound 2002 Acura RDX crossed the center line and collided with a northbound Hyundai Santa Fe carrying three passengers, including a baby.

The crash resulted in significant damage to both vehicles. James Smith, the driver of the Acura, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Hyundai, 24-year-old Holly Fifeld, as well as a female infant passenger, were transported to the hospital in serious condition. Another passenger, 24-year-old Riley Fifeld, is being treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

Whenever I read about a crash like this, I have many questions about why a vehicle would cross into oncoming traffic. In this case, the cause still seems to be unknown by investigators.

Could a Mechanical Defect Have Contributed?

My main question is whether a mechanical defect in the Acura RDX caused or contributed to the collision. Problems with the vehicle’s steering or braking systems can cause drivers to lose control, especially at highway speeds.

Given the Acura’s age, it’s also important to determine whether any recalls or known issues could have been a factor. A thorough inspection of the vehicle’s mechanical systems and maintenance records is essential to ruling out a defect as a contributing cause.

Was the Driver Distracted or Fatigued?

Another key question is whether the Acura’s driver was distracted before the collision. Investigators should review the driver’s cell phone records, as well as any available dashcam footage or witness statements, to determine if he was focused on the road. Additionally, if the driver had been traveling for a long period, fatigue may also have been a factor.

What Evidence Should Be Collected?

In addition to examining mechanical factors and driver actions, investigators should gather data from the vehicles’ Engine Control Modules (ECM). These systems can provide crucial insights about speed, braking, and steering inputs before the crash.

Skid marks, debris patterns, and the final positions of the vehicles can also help reconstruct the sequence of events. Witness statements may offer additional insights into what happened leading up to the collision.

Why These Kinds of Questions Matter

This crash resulted in serious injuries to multiple people and a fatality. In my experience, thorough investigations into crashes like this often reveal factors that aren’t immediately obvious. By examining the evidence closely, investigators can help ensure that all questions are answered and those impacted receive the full picture of what happened.