Photo courtesy of Fox 4 News
SEAGOVILLE, Texas — Authorities in Seagoville are searching for a driver involved in a fatal hit-and-run incident that claimed the life of a man standing beside a highway.
Details of the Incident
The tragic crash occurred around 7 p.m. last Thursday on the westbound service road of Highway 175, between the Malloy Bridge Road and Seagoville Road exits.
According to investigators, 51-year-old Jamie Lopez Tinoco had stopped his truck on the side of the service road to inspect building materials in its bed. Despite activating his emergency flashers, Tinoco was struck by another vehicle while standing behind his truck.
The collision left Tinoco pinned between his truck and the other vehicle. He sustained catastrophic injuries from the impact, exacerbated by the metal tubing and sheet metal protruding from his truck bed. When officers arrived at the scene, Tinoco had already succumbed to his injuries.
A Trail of Clues but Few Leads
Seagoville Police Officer Sam Click noted that fluid spills at the scene indicated a second vehicle was involved in the crash. However, evidence beyond that was scarce.
“There was a trail leaving from the scene that suggested the involvement of another vehicle, but unfortunately, we don’t have witnesses or camera footage to assist us,” Click said.
Authorities believe the vehicle that fled the scene likely sustained significant front-end damage and left behind a trail of fluid as it fled. Beyond this, they have no information about the vehicle’s make, model, or color.
A Pastor’s Final Conversation
David Villarreal, Tinoco’s pastor, was speaking to him on the phone moments before the crash. He recalled Tinoco mentioning he had pulled over and then suddenly exclaiming, “My legs!” before the call abruptly ended.
“I kept asking if he was okay, but there was no response,” Villarreal said. Later, someone at the crash site answered Tinoco’s phone and informed him of the devastating news.
“The person who answered told me, ‘I think someone hit him and ran away because there’s no one else here,’” Villarreal shared.
A Life Remembered
Villarreal described Tinoco as a joyful man who was dedicated to making positive changes in his life.
“He was so happy serving the Lord,” Villarreal said. “I know he felt God’s presence, and I take comfort in knowing he’s in a better place now.”
Police and Family Appeal for Information
Seagoville police are urging anyone with information to come forward. Officer Click emphasized that even small details—such as the make, model, or color of the suspect vehicle—could prove critical in solving the case.
“We can’t provide closure to the family until we know exactly what happened,” Click stated.
The family is also pleading with the driver to do the right thing and turn themselves in.
Anyone with information about the incident is encouraged to contact the Seagoville Police Department at 972-287-2999.
