Single-Vehicle Crash on FM 777 After Truck Collides With Fallen Tree; No Injuries Reported

Photo by Beech Grove VFD

A Jasper County driver is lucky to be walking away unharmed after his truck collided with a fallen tree blocking FM 777 Tuesday evening.

At 7:08 p.m., Beech Grove Volunteer Fire Department (BGVFD) was dispatched to the 13,000 block of FM 777 for reports of a single-vehicle accident involving a tree across the roadway.

When firefighters arrived, they found a newer model Ford truck that had struck a large hardwood tree laying across a curve in the roadway. The driver — the only person inside the vehicle — was not injured.

Firefighters used chainsaws to cut the tree apart and remove debris from around the truck to clear the roadway. Texas Department of Public Safety – Southeast Texas Region and the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office responded and handled the accident investigation.

BGVFD responded with B12, E11, and 14 firefighters.

High Winds, Dead Trees = Bad Combo

According to BGVFD, there are numerous dead and leaning trees along FM 777 and other county roadways. Winds tonight have already begun gusting over 30 mph, and a Wind Advisory remains in effect through 6 p.m. Wednesday.

Residents are urged to use extreme caution while driving — especially after dark — and be alert for falling or fallen trees.

Wildfire Risk Still High

In addition to high winds, the area remains under a high to extreme wildfire threat through tomorrow.Jasper County’s burn ban is still in effect.

“PLEASE DON’T BURN,” BGVFD emphasized in their release.

With dry vegetation, high winds, and dead timber along many roads, officials warn that even a small spark can turn into a wildfire fast.