A horrifying scene unfolded on a busy Texas expressway, leaving locals reeling and social media buzzing with shock.
A tow truck operator was killed in a grisly crash that has sparked fresh outrage over drunk driving.
Victim Identified as David Zapata
The man at the center of the tragedy has been identified as David Zapata, a tow truck driver working with Steel Towing.
He was reportedly on duty when the unimaginable happened—his body was violently severed after being struck by a suspected drunk driver in La Feria.
Gruesome Footage Spreads Online
While the video of the incident is too disturbing to share, it has been circulating online, showing the aftermath of the collision.
According to eyewitnesses, Zapata’s body was split in half on Expressway 83 near the Bass Boulevard exit, a scene so graphic that first responders immediately sealed off the area.
Crash Under Investigation by Texas DPS
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has taken over the investigation.
Officials say the fatal crash involved two vehicles and occurred around 5:10 p.m. on the westbound lanes of Expressway 83 in Harlingen.
A DPS spokesperson, Maria Hernandez, confirmed that one person died at the scene.
Heavy Emergency Response at the Scene
Both the Texas DPS and Harlingen Police Department responded swiftly.
Local crews from ValleyCentral were also present and reported seeing two body bags at the site.
Traffic quickly began to back up, and access to the area was restricted.
Road Closures and Traffic Chaos
The crash caused major traffic congestion, with backups stretching all the way to the Harlingen interchange.
Entrance ramps near the Bass Blvd. exit were shut down, and drivers were redirected onto Stuart Place Road to ease the growing gridlock.
A Stark Reminder About Drunk Driving Dangers
While full details have not been released, the crash has once again highlighted the devastating impact of drunk driving.
Authorities haven’t officially confirmed whether alcohol was a factor, but early reports and online speculation suggest it played a major role.
Community in Mourning
As the investigation continues, tributes have begun pouring in for David Zapata.
Friends and colleagues describe him as a hardworking man who was simply doing his job when his life was tragically cut short.
His death has left the local towing community—and his family—devastated.
What Happens Next?
The Texas DPS will be releasing more details once their investigation wraps up.
In the meantime, officials are urging drivers to remain vigilant, sober, and respectful of emergency responders working on the road.