A 71-year-old Sinton man was killed in a tragic crash on Tuesday, December 17, 2024, after his vehicle collided with the back of a trailer parked on the shoulder of an exit ramp. The incident occurred around 4:20 p.m. on the US 77 southbound exit ramp near mile marker 644, just outside of Sinton, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
The victim, identified as Ronald Morgenroth, was driving a Chevrolet Tahoe when he veered onto the improved shoulder of the exit ramp. His vehicle struck the rear of a stationary Wabash trailer, which was being towed by a Kenworth T680 truck operated by a 50-year-old man from Edinburg. Morgenroth suffered fatal injuries from the collision and was pronounced dead at the scene. The truck driver was not injured in the incident.
Authorities have not yet determined why the trailer was parked on the shoulder or what caused Morgenroth to collide with it. DPS troopers are investigating the circumstances, including potential factors such as weather, visibility, or road conditions. Witnesses and any available footage are being reviewed to piece together what led to the crash.
The crash underscores the dangers posed by stopped vehicles on highways or exit ramps. While it remains unclear why the trailer was parked on the shoulder, safety advocates emphasize the importance of drivers reducing speed and exercising caution when approaching vehicles stopped on the roadway. Such situations can quickly escalate into fatal accidents.
In the wake of Morgenroth’s death, the Sinton community is mourning the loss of a respected member. Friends and family remember him for his contributions to the area and are seeking closure as they await the findings of the ongoing investigation. Local authorities have expressed their condolences to his loved ones, reiterating their commitment to uncovering the details of the tragedy.
As troopers continue their investigation, the crash serves as a sobering reminder of the risks inherent in highway driving. Drivers are urged to remain vigilant, especially near stopped vehicles, and to prioritize safety at all times. The tragic death of Ronald Morgenroth highlights the need for increased awareness and adherence to safety measures to prevent similar accidents in the future.