More details released on FM-315 accident
By Chad Wilson

While the accident is still under investigation the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has released more information on the wreck that occurred on FM- 315 South, approximately 11:30am on Tuesday, July 31.

According to DPS reports Billy Wayne Duke of Chandler was driving a garbage truck heading Northbound on FM-315.

Midway through the FM-315 bridge between FM- 3709 and the entrance to Sunrise Shores Mr. Duke's truck had a blowout on the drivers side tire causing Mr. Duke to cross into the Southbound lane.

After crossing into the Southbound lane Mr. Duke collided with a 1998 green Dodge Caravan driven by Gloria Melton, 56, of Chandler and a Buick Regal driven by Kreg Vaughn of Flint.

Duke was treated and released from ETMC while Vaughn suffered a broken leg and is recovering.

Gloria Melton and backseat passenger Elbert Thorn, 82, of Chandler, both were pronounced dead on the scene by PCT 3 Justice of the Peace Sue Starnes. Funeral services were held Saturday at West Lake Baptist Church, where both were members.

Front seat passenger Mary Thorn,79, survived the wreck and was originally listed in critical condition with head trauma. Mrs. Thorn is now on the road to recovery in the Health South rehabilitation facility in Arlington, Texas.

Once she is released from the facility current plans are for her to live with her daughter, Donna Colin, in Arlington. Mrs. Thorn is the aunt of Mrs. Melton.

DPS lead investigator is Brent Davis and he is being assisted by Johnny Massey, SGT Andres Delagarza and John Watson of the License and Weight division.