Driver struck woman then fled after brief check in Texarkana
December 28, 2025 | Texarkana, TX
A woman suffered serious injuries after a hit-and-run crash on North Stateline Avenue in Texarkana, Texas, on Dec. 28.
The incident has prompted an ongoing search for the suspect by local authorities.
Zachary Sanders is wanted in connection with a hit-and-run that injured a pedestrian on North Stateline Avenue in Texarkana.
What Happened in the Crash?
The Texarkana Police Department reported that a vehicle struck the pedestrian before the driver briefly stopped to check on her and then fled. The victim's injuries were described as serious but not life-threatening.
- Date and Time: Dec. 28, around evening hours.
- Location: North Stateline Avenue, Texarkana, Texas.
- Vehicle Involved: Unspecified make and model, later located in Miller County, Arkansas.
- Injuries: Serious to the pedestrian, and no fatalities reported.
- Initial Response: The suspect called 911 but provided misleading information to authorities.
Who Is the Suspect and What Charges Does He Face?
Zachary Sanders, also known as Zachary Upchurch, age 36, is the primary person of interest. He faces charges for leaving the scene of a collision involving personal injury, alongside existing warrants in Texas and Arkansas.
Investigators located his vehicle in Miller County, Arkansas, following the false 911 report. The public is urged to assist in locating him safely.
How Can the Public Assist the Investigation?
Community members with any information about the incident or Sanders' whereabouts are encouraged to contact:
- Texarkana Police Department at 903-798-3116.
- Crime Stoppers at 903-793-STOP (7867) for anonymous tips.
Tips could be crucial in resolving this case and ensuring justice for the victim.
Hit-and-Run Accident Statistics
Hit-and-run incidents represent a significant portion of traffic collisions nationwide. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), these cases often complicate investigations and victim recovery.
Statistic |
Details |
Source |
|---|
Percentage of Crashes |
About 11% of all motor vehicle crashes involve a hit-and-run driver. |
NHTSA |
Common Factors |
Poor road lighting, high traffic volumes, and driver impairment contribute to these crashes. |
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) |
Victim Effect |
Pedestrians in hit-and-runs face higher risks of severe injuries due to lack of immediate aid. |
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) |
These figures underscore the need for heightened awareness and swift law enforcement action in such scenarios.
Legal Insights on Hit-and-Run Cases
In cases such as this involving motor vehicle crashes, independent investigations play a vital role in establishing accountability.
“Conducting a thorough investigation right away is essential to safeguard victim rights in hit-and-run situations,” said Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. “Factors like road conditions, signage, and lighting must be examined to demonstrate negligence and secure appropriate compensation.”
Key takeaways from legal perspectives:
- Prompt attorney involvement helps gather evidence before it fades.
- Insurance negotiations often require experienced advocacy to avoid undervalued settlements.
- Victims may pursue claims for medical costs, lost wages, and emotional distress.
Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal, emphasized the broader effects of injuries.
“Injuries from these accidents disrupt daily life, affecting work, family, and finances,” Formica noted. “Hiring legal representation ensures fair dealings with insurers, who may push for rushed, inadequate payouts.”
For those affected, consulting professionals early can maximize recovery options. Reach Bond Legal at 866-985-6515 for guidance.
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If you, a friend, or a family member has been injured by a hit-and-run or drunk driver, contact national legal analyst Candice Bond for a free consultation.
(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).