Tragic Accident on U.S. Highway 59 Claims Life of Maryland Man After Vehicle Becomes Disabled in Construction Zone
Burke, TX – A tragic incident unfolded Friday afternoon on U.S. Highway 59 in the Burke area, as a pedestrian was fatally struck by a semi-truck after his vehicle became disabled in a construction zone. According to Angelina County Sheriff Tom Selman, the victim has been identified as 40-year-old Nathaniel Jared Yinger of Westminster, Maryland.
The fatal collision occurred in the southbound lanes of the Diboll Relief Route construction zone, a heavily trafficked area currently undergoing major highway improvements. Sheriff Selman reported that Yinger had exited his vehicle on foot after it became stuck to the left of the lane in the active construction zone. The disabled car came to rest near the edge of the southbound traffic lanes in an area marked by narrowed shoulders and reduced visibility due to ongoing construction equipment and barriers.
For reasons still under investigation, Yinger left his vehicle and attempted to navigate the roadway on foot. It was during this time, in an area just south of Stringer Road, that he was struck by a passing semi-truck. Emergency responders arrived swiftly at the scene but were unable to save Yinger, who was pronounced dead on-site.
Details regarding why the vehicle became stuck are still under investigation, as authorities work to determine whether mechanical failure, roadway conditions, or another factor played a role in the initial incident that forced Yinger to exit his car. It is unclear at this time whether Yinger was attempting to seek assistance, assess damage, or move to a safer location.
Sheriff Selman emphasized the dangerous nature of active construction zones, where lane shifts, heavy machinery, and temporary barriers create an unpredictable and hazardous environment for both drivers and pedestrians.
“This is a heartbreaking situation,” Selman said. “Construction zones are especially risky areas, and we urge all drivers to remain in their vehicles and contact emergency services if they encounter vehicle trouble. Exiting a vehicle on a highway—especially in a work zone—can be extremely dangerous.”
The driver of the semi-truck remained at the scene and is cooperating with authorities. At this time, no charges have been filed, and no indications of impairment or negligence have been reported. The incident remains under investigation by the Angelina County Sheriff’s Office and the Texas Department of Public Safety.
The Diboll Relief Route, part of a long-term infrastructure improvement project, has been a site of ongoing construction for several months, with reduced speed limits and rerouted lanes intended to ensure the safety of both workers and travelers. Friday’s incident serves as a sobering reminder of the perils that can arise when vehicles become disabled in such environments.
Yinger’s family in Maryland has been notified, and local authorities have expressed their condolences during this difficult time. Friends and family members describe Yinger as a kind-hearted individual who was traveling through Texas at the time of the accident.
As the investigation continues, officials are urging drivers to take extra precautions in construction zones—reducing speed, increasing awareness, and staying in their vehicles if problems occur.
The Angelina County Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage to contact their department to aid in the ongoing investigation.