Construction Worker Braden Tucker, 21, Killed After Being Struck by 18-Wheeler on Interstate 30

Construction Worker Braden Tucker, 21, Killed After Being Struck by 18-Wheeler on Interstate 30

BOWIE COUNTY, Texas — A tragic accident on Thursday afternoon has claimed the life of Braden Tucker, a 21-year-old construction worker, who was fatally struck by an 18-wheeler while crossing Interstate 30. The heartbreaking incident unfolded along a stretch of highway under active construction, shaking both the local workforce and broader community.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the fatal incident occurred as Tucker, who was employed by a contracted construction company working on I-30 improvements, attempted to cross the eastbound lanes of the highway near [insert mile marker or nearby exit if known]. At that moment, an oncoming 18-wheeler — unable to stop in time — struck him at full speed.

Emergency services, including Bowie County EMS and law enforcement, responded swiftly to the scene. Despite efforts by medics to render aid, Braden Tucker was pronounced dead on-site due to the severity of his injuries.

Officials say the driver of the semi-truck remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation. Initial assessments have not indicated signs of impairment or reckless driving, and no charges have been filed at this time. However, the investigation remains active as authorities work to determine the exact sequence of events and whether all safety protocols were followed at the construction site.

Braden Tucker, a young man described by family and friends as hardworking, dependable, and full of life, had only recently begun his career in construction. His unexpected death has left his loved ones, coworkers, and the entire local construction community in shock and mourning.

“Braden was someone who showed up every day ready to work and ready to learn,” said a foreman from the site, who asked not to be named. “He had his whole future ahead of him. It’s just devastating.”

The company overseeing the highway project issued a brief statement expressing its condolences:

“We are heartbroken over the loss of our team member, Braden Tucker. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and loved ones. Safety is our top priority, and we are cooperating with authorities in every way possible during this investigation.”

The tragic accident has renewed concerns over the dangers faced by roadside workers and the importance of strict adherence to safety regulations in active construction zones. According to data from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), hundreds of work zone fatalities occur each year in the state, with construction workers among the most vulnerable.

Local leaders and highway safety advocates have called for continued driver awareness and stronger enforcement of work zone speed limits and safety laws. They are also urging the public to respect the men and women working in these environments, where even a moment of distraction can have fatal consequences.

“Every cone, every sign, every vest is there to protect lives,” said a spokesperson for TxDOT. “Braden’s death is a painful reminder of the stakes involved.”

Funeral arrangements for Braden Tucker are currently underway, with his family expected to release details in the coming days. Community members are already rallying to support the Tucker family through online fundraisers and local outreach efforts, honoring the memory of a life lost too soon.

Authorities ask that anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has relevant dashcam footage contact the Bowie County Sheriff’s Office or Texas DPS as the investigation continues.

As the community of Bowie County mourns, Braden Tucker will be remembered not only for his youth and promise, but also for the dedication he brought to his work — a reminder of the daily risks many face while building and maintaining our nation’s infrastructure.