On Thursday morning, May 22, 2025, a tragic series of crashes occurred on U.S. Highway 84 near Southeast Drive in Lubbock County, Texas, resulting in the deaths of two motorcyclists.
At approximately 5:18 a.m., a 1996 Harley-Davidson motorcycle, operated by 59-year-old Jerry Crisp of Lubbock, was traveling eastbound on U.S. 84 when it veered off the road into the center median. The motorcycle struck a cable barrier, crossed over it, and came to rest in the westbound lanes.
A 2016 Chevrolet SUV, driven by 49-year-old Jodi Gatewood of Slaton, was traveling westbound and collided with Crisp’s motorcycle.
The impact caused the SUV to skid off the road and land in a north barrow ditch by the railroad tracks. A passing train subsequently struck the SUV; however, no injuries were reported from this incident.
Meanwhile, a second motorcyclist, 37-year-old Christopher Lucero of Hale Center, had returned to the scene of the earlier crash and was attempting to re-enter the roadway from the shoulder.
As he did so, his 2016 Harley-Davidson motorcycle collided with a 2020 Chevrolet pickup truck driven by 51-year-old Christopher Banzet of Slaton.
Lucero was transported to University Medical Center in Lubbock, where he was later pronounced dead from his injuries. Banzet sustained minor injuries and was also taken to the hospital.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reported that the weather conditions were clear and dry at the time of the crashes, with a posted speed limit of 75 miles per hour. The DPS is investigating the incident as three separate crashes.
This tragic event serves as a reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for all drivers to remain vigilant and cautious, especially in areas with high-speed limits and heavy traffic.