Truck Comes Apart in Wreck as Driver, Amazingly, Stays Intact

A Peterbilt truck hauling a load of dry cement rolled over and came apart on SH 71 west of Ellinger Monday morning.

The wreck happened at 9:17 a.m., according to a report from Trooper Louis “L.A.” Gabler of the Texas Highway Patrol. Gabler’s report said 37-yearold Joel Alanis of Bellville was driving a white 2017 Peterbilt truck pulling a silver 2012 Vantage belly dump trailer. The rig was owned by Koy Concrete of Sealy.

Alanis was driving east on SH 71 when some kind of distraction in the cab caused him to swerve into the south bar ditch, Gabler said. The report did not describe what kind of distraction it was. The truck and trailer traveled a short distance in the ditch before striking a concrete culvert. The trailer broke free of the truck-tractor and rolled onto its right side. The engine and cab separated from the truck chassis.

Alanis escaped the mangled wreckage with cuts and bruises but no life-threatening injuries. Fayette County EMS transported him to St. Mark’s Hospital in La Grange for treatment.

Gabler said Alanis was wearing a seat belt. Gabler did not issue any citations.

Ellinger Volunteer Fire Department assisted with the cleanup. Fayette County Sheriff’s Office also responded and helped with traffic control.