Emerald Neomi Carta and Jose Conteras Dies in Tragic Crash on Highway 385 [Ector County, TX]

Ector County, TX (March 7, 2025) – 20-year-old Emerald Neomi Carta of Odessa, and Jose C. Balderas Conteras of Ballinger were killed in a head-on collision on US 385.

According to authorities, the fatal crash happened around 11:31 p.m. on US 385 near mile marker 361.

Reports say that the devastating head-on collision on Tuesday night claimed the lives of both drivers in Ector County.

Authorities reported that 20-year-old Carta was driving a 2021 Chevrolet Malibu southbound in the correct lane.

Meanwhile, 33-year-old Conteras was traveling north in the southbound lanes in a 2003 Ford Explorer.

The vehicles collided head-on, resulting in both drivers being pronounced dead at the scene.

Investigators confirmed that Conteras was not wearing a seatbelt, while Carta was properly restrained. The reason Conteras was driving the wrong way remains unknown. Officials continue to investigate the cause of the crash.

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Sweet Lawyers sends heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of Emerald Neomi Carta and Jose C. Balderas Conteras.

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Filing a wrongful death claim in case of a deadly collision can offer crucial benefits to the bereaved. One of the most immediate advantages is the potential for financial compensation, which can help cover funeral expenses, medical bills incurred before the death, and lost wages that the deceased would have provided to their family.

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