21-Year-Old Construction Worker Braden Tucker Fatally Struck by 18-Wheeler on I-30 in Bowie County

21-Year-Old Construction Worker Braden Tucker Fatally Struck by 18-Wheeler on I-30 in Bowie County

BOWIE COUNTY, Texas — A tragic accident claimed the life of a young construction worker on Thursday afternoon, when 21-year-old Braden Tucker was fatally struck by an 18-wheeler while crossing Interstate 30 in Bowie County. The incident occurred near an active construction zone and has left family, coworkers, and the local community mourning the sudden loss of a life taken far too soon.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the crash happened shortly after 2:00 p.m., in the eastbound lanes of I-30 near the [insert nearest exit or mile marker, if known]. Tucker was part of a road construction crew working along the highway and was reportedly attempting to cross the interstate on foot when he was struck by the tractor-trailer.

Emergency responders from Bowie County arrived at the scene within minutes. Despite their efforts, Tucker was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severity of his injuries.

The driver of the 18-wheeler, who has not been publicly identified, remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. No charges have been filed as of Friday, but authorities say a full investigation is underway. The Texas DPS is conducting a comprehensive crash reconstruction, and factors such as visibility, speed, and adherence to work zone safety protocols are being reviewed.

“This is a heartbreaking incident,” said a DPS spokesperson. “Our hearts go out to Mr. Tucker’s family and everyone affected. These kinds of tragedies are a painful reminder of how dangerous work zones can be.”

Braden Tucker, a resident of [insert hometown if known], had recently begun his career in construction and was described by friends and coworkers as hardworking, reliable, and always willing to lend a hand. At just 21, he was said to have had a bright future ahead of him.

“Braden was one of those guys who just showed up ready to work every single day,” said a fellow crew member. “He had a good head on his shoulders and was always trying to do right by his family.”

News of Tucker’s death has sent shockwaves through the local construction and transportation communities. The company he worked for, [insert company name if available], released a brief statement expressing condolences to his family and reaffirming their commitment to workplace safety.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of Braden Tucker, a valued member of our team. Our thoughts are with his loved ones. We are cooperating fully with authorities in their investigation and will be reviewing all safety procedures in place,” the company stated.

The incident has renewed discussions about work zone safety, especially along major highways like I-30, which sees high volumes of commercial and passenger traffic. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) has long advocated for heightened awareness and stricter enforcement in these zones to protect both workers and drivers.

According to TxDOT data, hundreds of construction workers are injured or killed every year in roadside work zones across the state, often due to speeding, distracted driving, or failure to heed warning signs.

“Construction zones are workplaces, not just obstacles on your commute,” said a TxDOT spokesperson. “Every cone, every sign, every vest is there for a reason — to save lives.”

Funeral arrangements for Braden Tucker are being made by his family, and details will be released in the coming days. A GoFundMe campaign and local support efforts are also being organized to assist his loved ones during this difficult time.

In honor of Tucker’s life, coworkers and community members plan to wear orange—the symbolic color of roadway safety—at a memorial to be held near the site of the incident.

As the investigation continues, anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has dashcam footage from the area around 2:00 p.m. on Thursday is encouraged to contact the Texas Department of Public Safety – Bowie County Office.

This tragic loss serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers that roadside workers face every day. As Bowie County mourns the death of Braden Tucker, the hope is that his memory will inspire greater awareness, compassion, and commitment to protecting those who build and maintain the infrastructure we all rely on.