William Chaplinski Arrested in Fatal DUI Collision on Highway 155
Smith County, TX (September 14, 2023) On September 8, 41-year-old Harry Collins III of Tyler dies in a head-on crash on Highway 155.
According to DPS, the fatal DUI collision happened on northbound Highway 155 a half mile south of Winona.
Reports say that 22-year-old William Chaplinski of Big Sandy was driving an allegedly stolen Nissan Titan southbound on Hwy 155, then crossed onto the opposite lane and crashed head-on with a northbound Kia Sportage, officials say that Collins was the driver of the struck SUV.
Officials say that Chaplinski was trying to pass another vehicle on a no-passing zone.
Smith County justice of the peace pronounced Collins dead at the scene.
Meanwhile, medics were treating Chaplinski in an ambulance when DPS officials arrived, and officers say that Chaplinski was showing signs of intoxication, wuth the strong odor of alcohol was allegedly notable on his breath, along with visibly bloodshot, glassy eyes.
Deputies administered a field soberiety test on Chaplinski, and determined that Chaplinski is too impaired to drive safely.
Authorities say that Chaplinski was taken to a hospital for his injuries and DPS has charged him with intoxication manslaughter as well as unauthorized use of a vehicle, and booked into the Smith County Jail on a $600,000 bond.
Sweet Lawyers express sympathies to the bereaved family of the Harry Collins III. Our hearts are with you through these trying times.
Fatal DUI Collision on Highway 155: What Can the Bereaved of Harry Collins III Do?
Around 20-50 million people are involved in road accidents yearly. However, not everyone knows what to do after a traffic accident.
The most valuable step after the head-on crash on Highway 155 is hiring a legal attorney.
Moreover, the legal and financial damage that comes from unforeseen loss is brutal to juggle while mourning. Yet, the days and months following a tragedy are the most precarious.
Our Legal Team Can Help The Bereaved
We encourage the loved ones of Harry Collins III to reach out to Sweet Lawyers‘ team of legal experts.
With over 40 years of experience in the legal field, we know what it takes to win a wrongful death or personal injury case.
Additionally, Sweet Lawyers promises that our attorneys will fight day and night to achieve the justice and compensation you and your family deserve.
Call our offices at (800) 674 7852 for a free consultation with a professional in the Smith County, Texas area.