A shocking accident on I‑10 near mile marker 149 has left the community in mourning after Eric Sparks, a beloved local youth coach, was killed when his 2024 Freightliner suddenly veered across multiple lanes of traffic. The incident occurred around 6 p.m. on a quiet Thursday evening, just as the sun was setting, turning what should have been a routine commute into a devastating tragedy.

Witnesses say the massive rig didn’t merely drift—it crossed the entire median, slicing through oncoming westbound lanes before crashing into a north-side ditch. Despite wearing a seatbelt, the force of the collision was fatal, and Sparks was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities are now investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, including the possibility of impairment, with toxicology results pending.

Sparks was more than a driver; he was a cherished member of the community, known for his booming laugh and dedication as a youth coach. Friends, colleagues, and families of his players remember him as a mentor who brought joy, guidance, and laughter into the lives of countless children. The loss is felt deeply, leaving both the roads and local community gripped by sorrow.

Investigators continue to search for answers as to why a high-end, modern truck would suddenly lose control in such a catastrophic way. No other vehicles were reported as impacted, but the potential danger to oncoming traffic makes the crash a sobering reminder of how quickly life can change on the highway.