24-Year-Old Patrick Purdon Dead in Collision on Interstate 20 [Reeves County, TX]

24-Year-Old Patrick Purdon Dead in Collision on Interstate 20 [Reeves County, TX]

Driver Arrested in I-20 Fatal Hit-and-Run Crash

Reeves County, TX (April 8, 2025) – 24-year-old Patrick Purdon from Truth or Consequences, New Mexico, was killed in a hit-and-run collision on Interstate 20 on Thursday.

The fatal collision happened on April 3 near Mile Marker 28.

Troopers said a 2005 Freightliner with a trailer driven by 77-year-old Jose Alfonso Melendez was westbound on the freeway.

Then, in an active construction zone, Melendez swerved to avoid striking a car but struck Patrick Purdon, a construction zone worker.

Officers said Melendez reentered the westbound lane and continued driving until a construction zone supervisor stopped him.

Sadly, Patrick Purdon was declared dead at the crash scene. 

The authorities charged Melendez with failure to stop and render aid-collision involving death. 

Police are conducting a further investigation.


We at Sweet Lawyers would like to extend our condolences to the loved ones of Patrick Purdon.


The Importance of Filing a Wrongful Death Claim After a Fatal Crash

The loss of a loved one in a fatal traffic accident is a devastating experience for families. In addition to the emotional trauma, the bereaved are often left facing unforeseen financial burdens. When this happens, filing a wrongful death claim can provide vital support, both legally and financially. It is important to understand that a wrongful death claim holds the responsible party accountable and allows the family of the deceased to seek compensation for their loss.

One of the primary reasons to pursue a wrongful death claim following a deadly traffic accident is to recover financial losses, which may include funeral expenses, medical costs for the deceased’s final treatment, and lost wages. If the deceased was the primary earner in the family, the surviving loved ones may struggle to cover day-to-day expenses without the deceased’s income. Compensation from a wrongful death lawsuit can help ease the financial strain caused by this loss.

Additionally, a wrongful death claim serves as a way to hold negligent parties responsible. Whether the crash was caused by a drunk driver, distracted driving, or a defective vehicle, the at-fault party should be held accountable for their actions. The legal process ensures that justice is pursued and can also raise awareness about dangerous behaviors that may have contributed to the collision and prevent similar accidents from happening.

Pursuing a wrongful death claim can offer a sense of closure and justice to grieving families. Yes, no financial compensation can replace the lost life of a loved one. Still, it can provide families with a sense of resolution, knowing that the responsible party has been held liable for their actions.

Consult With Our Legal Team

Sweet Lawyers has more than four decades of expertise in this field. It is always best to consult with our tenured attorneys to see your best legal options.

Call us at (800) 674-7852.

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