By Crash News Writer 
Grand Prairie, TX (September 17, 2026) – A two-vehicle crash left one driver dead and another injured on East Jefferson Street in Grand Prairie on September 13. The collision occurred at approximately 1:40 p.m. in the 300 block of East Jefferson Street and involved a Dodge passenger car and a Ford SUV.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Dodge was traveling east on East Jefferson Street when it collided with the Ford SUV as the Ford turned from westbound East Jefferson Street onto Southeast Second Street. The Ford driver, who was the vehicle’s sole occupant, was transported to a local hospital and later died. His identity was being withheld pending notification of next of kin.
Police identified the Dodge driver as 18-year-old Ernesto Esqueda of Dallas. Esqueda was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. Investigators reported that surveillance footage from nearby businesses indicated the Dodge had been traveling at a high rate of speed before the collision. Esqueda was taken into custody and charged with manslaughter. The charge is an allegation, and the case remains under investigation.
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Fatal motor vehicle crashes can leave surviving family members facing medical expenses, funeral costs, lost financial support, insurance questions, and other significant concerns. Preserving evidence early may be important, especially when investigators are reviewing surveillance footage and other records. Photographs, witness information, medical documentation, insurance correspondence, employment records, and investigative materials may all become relevant. Families can review car accident laws in Texas to better understand state rules that may apply following a fatal roadway accident.
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PLEASE TAKE NOTICE
This article is based on initial information released by authorities and may be revised as the investigation develops. Readers seeking general information about accident claims and related procedures can review frequently asked questions in Texas.
The identity of the Ford SUV driver had not been released pending official confirmation and notification of next of kin. Police identified Ernesto Esqueda as the Dodge driver and reported that he was charged with manslaughter. Additional investigative findings or court information may be released as the case proceeds.
Road closures and traffic updates connected with an accident investigation should be confirmed through local authorities or traffic monitoring services. Families affected by serious or fatal crashes can also review accident resources in Texas for additional information.
This news story is provided for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All information is based on public reports available at the time of publication, and details may change as investigations progress. Readers are encouraged to seek legal counsel if they or someone they know has been involved in a similar incident. The publisher assumes no liability for actions taken or not taken based on the information provided in this article. Learn more through our disclaimer.
If your family has been affected by a fatal accident, call an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your rights and available legal options. A Texas personal injury lawyer can review the circumstances and explain possible next steps.