Lubbock deputies now recovering after crash involving distracted semi driver

LUBBOCK, Texas — Lubbock County Sheriff Kelly Rowe addressed the public after the Monday morning crash that left two Lubbock deputies seriously injured and another person with moderate injuries.

Sheriff Rowe stated that Deputy Andrew Cavazos and Deputy Jorge Martinez both came off a call on Monday morning when they saw a motorist who needed assistance. Both officers stopped to block the outside lane of traffic when a distracted semi-truck driver rear-ended both sheriff vehicles, pinning both officers and leaving Officer Cavazos dangling over the guard railing. The Lubbock Police Department identified the driver of the semi as Gregory Vaught, 57. No charges have been filed in the case as of Tuesday afternoon.

Lubbock residents and first responders quickly sprang into action and helped the deputies. The Lubbock County Sheriff’s Office reported that the Lubbock Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety and Lubbock Fire Rescue responded immediately.

Both officers were transported to University Medical Center for their injuries and have since been released. The extent of their injuries is still being evaluated, but they suffered no broken bones.

Another driver was also transported for medical treatment and has since been released.

In a statement, Deputy Martinez expressed gratitude, stating: “Thank you for assisting my partner when I couldn’t reach him.”

In another statement, Deputy Cavazos stated, “I appreciate everyone who helped. It could’ve gone a lot differently without you there.”

This is an ongoing investigation. Sheriff Rowe also stated that any potential charges from this case will stem from the Lubbock Police Department and the Lubbock Police Department’s Major Crash Unit.