MESQUITE, TX – A tragic three-vehicle collision on Highway 80 late Tuesday night resulted in the deaths of two individuals, with police attributing the cause to an intoxicated driver. The incident unfolded just east of Interstate 635, where authorities say a reckless driver collided with another vehicle, setting off a chain reaction that involved a motorcycle.
Witnesses reported the suspect, identified as 46-year-old Kevin Jackson, was driving erratically in an Audi SUV, weaving through eastbound traffic at speeds between 80 and 90 mph. Concerned motorists had already called 911, citing Jackson’s aggressive tailgating and speeding, which posed a significant danger to others on the road.
The crash occurred when Jackson’s vehicle clipped the back of a Toyota RAV4, causing it to overturn and collide with a motorcycle. The driver of the Toyota, 64-year-old Mark Bryant from Dallas, and the motorcyclist, 61-year-old Brian Robinson, were both pronounced dead at the scene.
Eyewitness JJ Tarnow described the scene as chaotic and terrifying, noting the reckless nature of Jackson’s driving and the immediate aftermath of the crash. Tarnow was one of the first on the scene, attempting to assist the victims before authorities arrived.
Upon arrival, Mesquite police found Jackson sitting on the median wall, reportedly smelling of alcohol with bloodshot eyes. Despite the chaos around him, including distraught bystanders, Jackson appeared indifferent. He later admitted to consuming two glasses of wine earlier in the evening during an argument with his girlfriend.
Jackson failed several sobriety tests administered at the hospital. He denied responsibility for the crash, claiming there was already an accident on the westbound lanes of the highway. Despite his assertions, he was arrested and charged with two counts of intoxication manslaughter, highlighting the severe consequences of impaired driving.
As the investigation continues, the families of the victims are left to mourn their loved ones, grappling with the sudden loss. The tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by driving under the influence and the devastating effects it can have on innocent lives.