One person was killed Monday night in a collision between a tractor pulling a homemade trailer and an 18-wheeler on Hwy 78 near FM 1396 in Fannin County. State Troopers say the tractor was traveling without lights or reflective emblems and was attempting a turn when it was struck from behind by the 18-wheeler. The driver of the tractor, 60-year-old Nicolas Gamez Santana of Bonham, was pronounced dead at the scene. The big rig driver, 65-year-old William Bailey Isham of Greenville, was not injured. The investigation is continuing.
DPS Preliminary Investigation
Date & Time: January 16, 2023, at 6:15 pm
County: Fannin.
Location: State Highway 78 near FM-1396
Posted Speed Limit: 70 MPH Weather: Clear/Cloudy Road Condition: Dry.
Vehicle 1: 2021 Kubota Tractor towing a homemade trailer.
Driver: Deceased.
Nicolas Gamez Santana, male, 60 YOA, from Bonham, TX.
Seatbelt: No.
Vehicle 2: 1998 Peterbilt towing a semi-trailer.
Driver: Not injured.
William Bailey Isham, male, 65 YOA, from Greenville, TX.
Description: Preliminary investigation indicates vehicle one was traveling southbound on State Highway 78 without displaying any emblems, reflective material, or lighting as required. The driver of vehicle 1 slowed down to make a left turn. The driver of vehicle two did not see vehicle one or its trailer and struck vehicle 1’s trailer from behind. Post impact, vehicle one rolled over, and the driver ejected. The driver of vehicle one was pronounced deceased at the scene. This investigation is ongoing, and no additional information is available.
Investigated by: Trooper A. Crittenden, DPS – Cooper.