Three-Vehicle Collision Caused by Teen Driver in Odessa Sends Four to Hospital

On January 23, 2025, at approximately 8:31 a.m., Odessa Police Department (OPD) and Odessa Fire Rescue (OFR) responded to a major crash at 42nd Street and Everglade Avenue.

Investigators determined that a black Ford Mustang, driven by a 16-year-old male, was traveling eastbound in the 1200 block of East 42nd Street. A gray Toyota Tundra, operated by 65-year-old Debra Harris, and a silver Chevrolet Silverado, driven by 58-year-old Febe Morales, were traveling westbound on the same street.

The driver of the Mustang reported losing traction on the back wheels, causing the vehicle to veer into the westbound lanes, where it collided with the Tundra. The impact pushed the Mustang into the Silverado.

All three drivers were transported to Medical Center Hospital (MCH) with non-life-threatening injuries. However, the Mustang’s passenger, identified as 19-year-old Angel Meraz, suffered life-threatening injuries and was also transported to MCH.

The crash remains under investigation by authorities.