One Killed in King County Crash

Abilene man dies after vehicle leaves road and strikes tree

Apr. 8, 2026 at 6:03pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a twisted, damaged car part illuminated by a harsh, direct flash against a pitch-black background, conveying the stark, gritty aftermath of a fatal collision.A grim reminder of the devastating consequences of a single-vehicle crash on a rural Texas highway.Abilene Today

A 46-year-old Abilene man was killed in a single-vehicle crash north of Guthrie, Texas on Tuesday night. The man, identified as Ty Means, was driving a 2012 Ford F-250 pickup southbound on U.S. Highway 83 when the vehicle left the roadway, entered a ditch, and struck a tree. Means was pronounced dead at the scene.

Why it matters

Fatal single-vehicle crashes are a persistent issue in rural Texas, often involving high speeds and lack of seatbelt use. This incident highlights the need for continued road safety education and enforcement efforts to prevent such tragedies.

The details

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the crash occurred around 10:23 p.m. approximately five miles north of Guthrie. Preliminary information indicates Means' vehicle was traveling southbound when it entered a curve, left the roadway, and traveled into the west barrow ditch before striking a tree. Conditions at the time were reported as clear with dry roadways, and the posted speed limit in the area is 75 mph.

  • The crash occurred around 10:23 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8, 2026.
  • Means was pronounced dead at the scene.

The players

Ty Means

A 46-year-old man from Abilene, Texas who was killed in the single-vehicle crash.

Texas Department of Public Safety

The state law enforcement agency that investigated the fatal crash.

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The takeaway

This tragic incident underscores the importance of safe driving practices, such as wearing seatbelts and obeying posted speed limits, especially on rural roads. Continued education and enforcement efforts are crucial to preventing similar crashes and saving lives.