Local News
Watch: Fatal Motorcycle Crash Shuts Down I-635 in Dallas
Dallas, TX – A motorcyclist was killed in a fatal crash after colliding with the rear of a dump truck on eastbound I-635 near T.I. Boulevard in Dallas.
The accident resulted in significant roadway closures and fire damage involving multiple vehicles.
Authorities responded to the scene where the motorcycle impacted the back of the dump truck, causing a fire that spread to two vehicles.
Emergency responders confirmed that the motorcycle rider succumbed to injuries at the scene.
As a result of the crash, eastbound I-635 at T.I. Boulevard remains completely shut down, with all traffic being forced to exit.
Additionally, ramps from U.S. Highway 75 to I-635 are closed until further notice as investigators and cleanup crews work at the site.
The circumstances leading up to the crash remain under investigation. Motorists are advised to seek alternate routes and expect significant delays.
Further details, including the identity of the deceased, have not yet been released.
Local News
61-year-old Cynthia Diekema killed by alligator during couple canoe trip in Polk County
Her husband attempted to intervene and rescue her, but the attack proved fatal.
A tragic and rare fatal alligator attack claimed the life of a 61-year-old woman in Polk County, Florida, during a canoeing trip with her husband on Tuesday afternoon, according to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).
Cynthia Diekema, a resident of Polk County, was canoeing with her husband at the mouth of Tiger Creek near Lake Kissimmee when their vessel drifted over a large alligator in approximately 2.5 feet of water.
Authorities say the animal thrashed violently, causing the canoe to overturn and throwing both occupants into the water.
Officials report that Diekema ended up on top of the alligator during the struggle and was bitten.
Her husband attempted to intervene and rescue her, but the attack proved fatal.
Diekema’s body was later recovered from the water.
FWC confirmed that two large alligators were captured in connection with the incident.
The first, an 11-foot-4-inch specimen believed to have been involved in the attack, was located and euthanized Tuesday night.
A second gator, estimated to be between 10 and 11 feet in length, was captured the following morning as a precaution.
“This is a devastating loss,” said Roger Young, executive director of the FWC, during a press briefing on Wednesday. He emphasized that while fatal alligator encounters are extremely uncommon, the tragedy underscores the importance of respecting Florida’s native wildlife.
In response to the incident, FWC has reiterated safety guidance for residents and visitors: avoid swimming in non-designated areas, especially at dawn or dusk, and keep pets and small children away from the water’s edge.
The investigation remains ongoing.