Cleburne police are investigating a pedestrian vs. semi crash that occurred Tuesday morning, claiming the life of 18-year-old Brayden Avery. According to initial reports, Avery was crossing North Main Street near Williams Avenue around 7:45 a.m. when he was struck by a southbound 2016 Freightliner tractor. He was airlifted to Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital in Fort Worth, where he was later pronounced dead. The truck driver was not injured, and the investigation is ongoing.
When I come across a case like this—especially involving a large commercial vehicle and a pedestrian—I always think about the importance of identifying exactly how the collision occurred. In my experience, investigations into these types of crashes often uncover overlooked factors that can completely reshape our understanding of what happened.
Was the Truck Driver Distracted or Fatigued?
When a commercial vehicle strikes a pedestrian in broad daylight, it raises serious questions about whether the driver was fully alert and paying attention. Investigators should examine the possibility of distraction—such as cell phone use—or fatigue, especially if the driver had been on the road for an extended period. Reviewing driver logs and cell phone records can help clarify whether the operator was complying with hours-of-service rules and maintaining proper awareness.
Could Mechanical Issues Have Been a Factor?
Another important angle is whether the semi-truck had any mechanical problems that affected its ability to stop or maneuver safely. Brake failures, worn tires, or steering issues can all limit a driver's ability to respond in time. A full inspection of the Freightliner and a review of its maintenance records could reveal whether a mechanical defect contributed to the collision.
What Evidence Should Be Examined?
To get a full picture of how this crash happened, investigators should collect surveillance footage from nearby businesses, any dash cam recordings from the truck, and data from the truck’s Engine Control Module (ECM). That data can provide critical insight into the vehicle’s speed, braking, and steering at the time of the crash. Witness statements and physical evidence from the scene will also play a key role in reconstructing the incident.
Why a Full Investigation Is Crucial
Pedestrian crashes involving semi-trucks demand careful analysis to determine whether this was a case of driver inattention, equipment failure, or other contributing factors. In my experience, these investigations frequently turn up details that don’t make it into the initial reports, but are essential to understanding the full story. That’s especially important in any accident that involves a serious injury or fatality.