Skip Navigation or Skip to Content

March 11, 2026

National Edition

Go

Enter your Zip code for a more local, personalized experience where available.

ECTOR COUNTY

William Trantham dies in two-vehicle crash on Moss Avenue

The content of this page is covered by and subject to our legal disclaimer

Chevrolet Silverado struck Ford Maverick after driver ran stop sign on I-20 north service road

December 25, 2025 | Ector, TX

A tragic two-vehicle accident claimed the life of 76-year-old William Jackson Trantham from Odessa at the intersection of the I-20 north service road and Moss Avenue in Ector County. 

The Texas Department of Public Safety reported the incident occurred around 11:15 p.m. on Dec. 25.

police lightsWilliam Jackson Trantham, 76, of Odessa, died after a Chevrolet Silverado struck his Ford Maverick at the I-20 north service road and Moss Avenue intersection.

What Happened in the Crash?

The collision involved a Chevrolet Silverado driven by a 19-year-old traveling westbound on the north service road of I-20. The driver failed to stop at a stop sign and struck Trantham's northbound Ford Maverick. Trantham was pronounced dead at the scene.

Key Details of the Incident

  • Victim: William Jackson Trantham, 76, of Odessa
  • Date and Time: Dec. 25, around 11:15 p.m.
  • Location: Intersection of I-20 north service road and Moss Avenue, Ector County, Texas
  • Vehicles Involved: Chevrolet Silverado, driven by a 19-year-old, and Ford Maverick, driven by Trantham
  • Cause: Driver disregarded the stop sign
  • Outcome: Trantham was killed, and an investigation is ongoing by the Texas Department of Public Safety

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Failing to yield at stop signs often stems from distractions like cellphone use or misjudging traffic. According to the Federal Highway Administration, nearly 700,000 police-reported crashes occur annually at stop signs, with about one-third resulting in injuries.

StatisticValueSource
Annual Crashes at Stop SignsNearly 700,000Federal Highway Administration
Crashes Involving InjuriesApproximately 33%Federal Highway Administration
Common CausesDriver distraction, speeding, and poor judgmentNational Highway Traffic Safety Administration

Legal Insights

In cases such as this, independent investigations play a crucial role in uncovering facts. Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, emphasizes the need for thorough reviews.

“In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party,” said Bond, a national analyst for Newsline. “Time is of the essence in cases such as this, and the family of a victim must be ensured that evidence is reviewed in an efficient manner.”

Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, highlights potential claims.

“We understand that losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional loss but also an economic one,” said Formica. “If you have lost a loved one due to someone else’s negligence, contact a wrongful death attorney and get the guidance needed to obtain the justice you deserve.”

  • Investigation Importance: Re-interview witnesses and review evidence promptly to build a strong case.
  • Wrongful Death Claims: Families may seek damages for loss of companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress.
  • Next Steps: Consult legal professional to evaluate options based on the incident's details.

Pending the investigation, Trantham's family may pursue a wrongful death claim against the at-fault driver.

The crash remains under investigation by authorities.

Newsline, a premier digital news platform owned by Belsito Communications, Inc., upholds rigorous editorial standards with an unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity and editorial excellence. Our stories are based on verified data, and we invite readers to review our Corrections Policy for transparency, including a 24-hour review guarantee.

For advertising opportunities with Newsline, including partnerships in insurance and automotive sectors, visit https://www.newsline.com/contact.

(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)

Newsline - is your trusted source for legal news and accident reports, delivering timely updates to keep you informed.


Have you experienced a similar accident and need guidance? Contact national legal analyst Candice Bond at Newsline for a free, no-obligation consultation today.

(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).

Tags: Latest News, Non Commercial, Motor Vehicle Accident, Texas, I-20 North Service Road and Moss Avenue

The staff of Newsline would like to extend our thoughts and prayers to William Jackson Trantham and family

No message - Add First Message