Two Injured in Wreck that Tied Up Traffic

VAN ZANDT COUNTY — Two people were hurt, one seriously, in a major wreck in Van Zandt County Wednesday morning. KETK reports the crash left both vehicles involved mangled on Highway 19 at County Road 4205, according to the South Van Zandt Volunteer Fire Department. The accident happened when a truck heading northbound on Highway 19 lost control, over-corrected, and slammed into a car traveling southbound.

Crews were called to the scene around 7:00 a.m. When SFZVFD firefighters arrived, they had to use the “jaws of life” to remove Billy Tims, 57, from his car. He was flown to ETMC Tyler with what were described as serious injuries. He was listed in fair condition as of late Wednesday afternoon. The driver of the truck, Garrett Wade, 24, suffered only minor injuries. Highway 19 was down to one lane for a few hours, and both lanes were closed for a short time for air assistance. The scene was cleared at 9:00 a.m. Canton Fire Rescue assisted with the wreck.