In a tragic incident, Jason “Scot” Wright, the principal of Dalhart High School in Dalhart, Texas, died in a head-on collision with a semi-truck.
The accident occurred on Highway 87, between Dumas and Hartley, Texas, around 1 a.m. on January 24, 2024.
Wright, aged 54, was driving home from basketball games in Tulia when his vehicle veered into oncoming traffic in the eastbound lane, leading to the fatal collision.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Wright was traveling westbound on US 87 in his 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer when the incident occurred. Reports indicate that dense fog and low visibility conditions on the highway may have contributed to the crash. Both Wright and the truck driver were wearing seat belts at the time of the collision.
Wright was taken to Moore County Hospital, where he later died from the injuries sustained in the crash. The driver of the semi-truck was not injured. Investigations by Texas officials into the exact cause of the accident are ongoing.
The Dalhart Independent School District superintendent, Jeff Byrd, expressed deep sorrow over Wright’s passing. In his heartfelt statement, Byrd highlighted Wright’s significant impact on the school and community, describing him as a figure of kindness, strength, wisdom, and compassion.
Wright, who had served as the principal of Dalhart High School since 2018, was recognized as a dedicated educator and an inspiring role model for students and staff.
The Dalhart community has faced multiple losses recently, including the deaths of students and a fire chief, making Wright’s death another grievous event for the town.
Byrd, reflecting on these tragedies, emphasized the community’s resilience and the importance of celebrating Wright’s positive influence during his tenure at the school.
Wright is survived by his wife Torri, a school nurse, and their two children. The school district plans to coordinate with students to celebrate Wright’s life and legacy. Memorial services for Wright were held at the Dalhart High School auditorium, where members of the community gathered to pay their respects and celebrate his contributions.
The Texas Department of Public Safety continues to investigate the crash to determine the exact factors that led to this tragic event.