5 killed in fiery highway crash in Texas, authorities say

LAMPASAS, Texas (KEYE) — The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) said a tire blowout led to a two-vehicle crash that killed five people.

It happened north of Lampasas Wednesday just before 6 a.m. on U.S. Highway 281.

DPS said the crash occurred when a 2004 Cadillac CTS traveling southbound experienced a rear tire blowout, causing it to lose control and veer into oncoming traffic. The Cadillac collided with a northbound 2024 Kia Telluride at milepost 406, according to DPS.

Authorities identified the driver of the Cadillac as Jacinto Gudino Duran, 31, of Copperas Cove, Texas. A 23-year-old female passenger from Copperas Cove was also in the vehicle.

The Kia was driven by Arvind Mani, 45, of Leander, Texas. Passengers were identified as Pradeepa Arvind, 40, and Andril Arvind, 17.

All five occupants of both vehicles were pronounced dead at the scene, DPS said.

Witnesses reported the Cadillac had been speeding ahead of the crash, according to authorities. The investigating trooper noted evidence of extensive damage to both vehicles.

The investigation is ongoing.

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