Manuel Vidana-Contreras killed in two vehicles hit-and-run on FM 1936

Driver of second vehicle fled after striking pedestrian in West Odessa

December 03, 2025 | West Odessa, TX

A tragic pedestrian accident claimed the life of Manuel Vidana-Contreras after he was struck by two vehicles on West 42nd Street at FM 1936. The Texas Department of Public Safety is leading the investigation into this hit-and-run case.

What Happened in the Crash?

Manuel Vidana-Contreras, 55, of Odessa died after a Lincoln Nautilus and another vehicle struck him and fled the scene on West 42nd Street at FM 1936 in West Odessa.

Around 6:30 p.m., a Lincoln Nautilus traveling eastbound collided with the 55-year-old Odessa resident as he crossed the roadway. Moments later, a second unidentified vehicle struck him and fled the scene without stopping.

• Date and Time: Dec. 3, approximately 6:30 p.m.
• Location: W. 42nd Street at FM 1936, West Odessa, Ector County, Texas
• Victim: Manuel Vidana-Contreras, 55, of Odessa, and pronounced dead at the scene
• Vehicles Involved: Lincoln Nautilus, driver unidentified in initial reports, second vehicle, hit-and-run
• Agencies Involved: Texas Department of Public Safety, primary, and Ector County Sheriff's Office, assisting

Authorities urge anyone with information about the fleeing driver to contact the Texas DPS or Ector County Sheriff's Office.

Why Do Hit-and-Run Crashes Occur in Texas?

Hit-and-run incidents pose a significant threat to pedestrian safety, particularly in urban areas. According to the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT), these crashes have risen by about 12% from 2019 to 2023.

Factors like poor road lighting, high traffic volumes, and driver distraction contribute to these accidents, especially after dark.

Legal Insights on Hit-and-Run Investigations

In cases such as this, thorough independent investigations are crucial to uncover negligence and support affected families.

“Having the proper resources is extremely important in order to investigate a hit-and-run accident case and prove negligence,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. “Road conditions, signage visibility, and road lighting are all possible contributing factors that are considered and must thoroughly be examined. These procedures are necessary for helping someone who has lost a loved one at the hands of a hit-and-run driver receive the justice and monetary compensation that they deserve.”

Key takeaways from legal analysis:

• Independent investigations preserve evidence often overlooked by initial police reports.
• Factors like visibility and road design play key roles in establishing liability.
• Timely action protects rights and aids in securing fair compensation.

For wrongful death scenarios stemming from negligent driving—such as speeding or impairment—families may pursue claims covering funeral costs, emotional distress, and loss of companionship.

“An incident is considered a wrongful death when either a person or entity commits a wrongful or negligent act resulting in a person's death,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “When vehicle accident fatalities result from unsafe driving, aggressive or distracted driving, speeding, or driving under the influence, family members are usually left with the option to pursue a civil action against the responsible motorist.”

The investigation continues, with public tips vital to identifying the second driver.

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