Collision on State Highway 73 Between Cross Roads and Columbus Involving Pickup and 18-Wheeler – No Serious Injuries Reported
HEMPSTEAD COUNTY, AR – A potentially devastating crash was narrowly avoided Sunday evening when a pickup truck collided with an 18-wheeler along State Highway 73, between Cross Roads and Columbus. The accident occurred at approximately 6:30 p.m. on June 1st, drawing a swift response from local and state emergency services. Thankfully, no serious injuries have been reported.
According to reports from the Hempstead County Sheriff’s Department, deputies were dispatched to the scene shortly after the incident was called in. Arkansas State Police also responded to assist with traffic control and to initiate an official investigation into the cause of the crash. Pafford Emergency Medical Services arrived shortly after to assess those involved and provide any necessary medical attention.
Details of the Incident
While the precise cause of the accident remains under investigation, initial accounts suggest that the pickup truck either failed to yield or misjudged the timing of the oncoming 18-wheeler, leading to the collision. The crash occurred along a stretch of State Highway 73, known for its winding curves and limited visibility in certain areas—factors that can complicate driving conditions, especially during the evening hours.
Authorities have not yet released the names of the individuals involved in the crash, but they confirmed that both drivers were checked at the scene and declined transportation to the hospital. Minor injuries were reportedly treated on-site, and both vehicles sustained damage, with the pickup showing more significant structural impact.
Emergency Response and Road Conditions
Deputies with the Hempstead County Sheriff’s Office worked quickly to secure the scene and direct traffic, as both lanes were temporarily blocked due to the size of the 18-wheeler and the debris scattered on the highway. Tow trucks were called to remove the damaged vehicles, and crews worked to clear the roadway of fluids and debris.
Despite the significant size difference between the vehicles, the outcome could have been far worse. Authorities credit the use of seatbelts and relatively low speeds at the time of the crash as contributing factors to the lack of serious injuries.
Investigation Ongoing
As with all commercial vehicle-involved collisions, the Arkansas State Police Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division will also conduct a follow-up inspection of the 18-wheeler to ensure it was operating within state safety regulations. Investigators are reviewing any potential driver error, mechanical failure, or roadway conditions that may have played a role.
No citations have been issued at this time, but officials have stated that charges or citations may still be pending based on the results of the ongoing investigation.
Community Reaction
Local residents expressed concern over the frequency of accidents on State Highway 73, a route that serves as a connector between rural communities but often sees high-speed traffic and large commercial vehicles sharing the road with smaller, local traffic.
“Too many people take this highway for granted,” said one area resident. “We’ve seen more than our share of wrecks along this stretch, and it’s a miracle no one was seriously hurt this time.”
A Reminder for Safe Driving
This incident serves as a strong reminder of the importance of staying alert on rural highways and maintaining a safe distance from large commercial vehicles. Drivers are encouraged to use caution when merging or turning onto highways, especially in areas with limited visibility or traffic volume changes.
The Hempstead County Sheriff’s Department thanked local drivers for their patience during the temporary closure and cleanup and emphasized the importance of reporting hazardous driving or road conditions when witnessed.
Further details will be released as the investigation progresses. If you witnessed the collision or have information that could assist authorities, please contact the Hempstead County Sheriff’s Office.
Thankfully, this time, tragedy was avoided. But officials urge the public to take this close call as a prompt to drive with extra caution—because not every accident ends as fortunately.