Independence County, AR (October 22, 2024) – Arkansas State Police have released the identity of the victim in a fatal crash that occurred early Tuesday morning in Independence County.

The incident took place at approximately 4:39 a.m. on October 22, along State Highway 69 near the OMP Feed Mill, located east of Magness. According to the preliminary accident report, 49-year-old Malcom Hix from Batesville was traveling southbound when the collision occurred.

Authorities stated that a 2021 Peterbilt truck was attempting to make a left turn onto the highway from a private drive. Hix’s 2006 Kenworth collided with the trailer of the Peterbilt, causing the trailer to catch fire. Tragically, Malcom Hix was pronounced dead at the scene.

The driver of the Peterbilt, whose identity has not been disclosed by police, was unharmed in the incident. The Arkansas State Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Further details may be released as the investigation progresses.

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Losing a loved one in a fatal truck accident is devastating, and taking steps to protect your rights can feel overwhelming. However, acting quickly and securing legal representation is crucial. Fatal truck accidents often involve multiple parties, such as trucking companies, drivers, and insurers, all of whom may try to shift responsibility. An experienced wrongful death attorney can help investigate the accident, gather vital evidence like accident reports, and determine the liable parties. This legal support is essential to seek compensation for funeral costs, lost income, and emotional suffering. It’s also important not to communicate directly with insurance companies, as they may attempt to offer low settlements. Instead, let your attorney handle negotiations to ensure a fair outcome. Protecting your rights after a fatal truck accident helps provide accountability and financial security for your family during such a difficult time. Seek professional guidance to navigate these challenges effectively.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

• The information in this article is based on initial reports from local authorities and may be subject to updates as investigations continue.
• The identities of those involved in the incident have not been released pending official confirmation and notification of next of kin.
• Further details about the accident, including toxicology results and potential charges, will be shared as they become available.
• Road closures and traffic updates related to the accident scene can be found by checking with local authorities or traffic monitoring services.

The content of this news story is for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal or medical advice. All information is based on public reports 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 have 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 with our disclaimer.