Dalhart man, 39, dies in crash involving semi on US 87 in Dallam County

The Texas Department of Public Safety released information about an early Friday crash involving a pickup and a semi in Dallam County that left one dead. 

At approximately 8:15 a.m., a 2001 Peterbilt Truck tractor towing a semi-trailer was traveling northwest on US 87 in the right lane about eight miles northwest of Dalhart, according to a statement from the Texas Department of Public Safety.  A 2006 Toyota Tacoma was traveling northwest on US 87 behind the semi.

The semi's driver, Billie Morgan, 58, of Dalhart, slowed and signaled to make a right turn into a private drive. For unknown reasons, the driver of the Tacoma, Damon Whaley, 39, of Dalhart, did not observe the semi slowing down to make the turn, and the pickup struck the semi in the rear.

Morgan was not injured and was wearing a seat belt. 

The posted speed limit was 75 mph, and road conditions were dry and clear. 

Whaley died on the scene. He was pronounced deceased by Dallam County Justice of the Peace Carol Smith. Whaley was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. 

The crash remains under investigation by the Texas Highway Patrol Troopers.