Community Rallies Around Deputies Injured In Highway 87 Crash

Monday morning brought a frightening scene on southbound Highway 87, where two Lubbock County Sheriff’s deputies were seriously injured after their patrol unit was struck by a semi-truck. The crash happened around 9:15 a.m. near the 98th Street overpass while the deputies were assisting a stranded motorist.

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Emergency Response at the Scene

According to officials, the deputies were standing outside their parked patrol unit when the semi collided with the empty vehicle, pinning the officers between the patrol car and the guardrail. Witnesses at a nearby gas station saw the crash unfold and immediately rushed over to help until emergency crews arrived.

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First responders from the Lubbock Police Department, the Department of Public Safety, and the Lubbock Fire Department quickly secured the scene. In all, three people were transported to University Medical Center—two deputies with serious injuries and one civilian with minor injuries.

Update on the Deputies

By early afternoon, the Lubbock County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that Deputies Cavazos and Martinez were the two officers hurt in the crash. Both are being treated at UMC and, thankfully, are expected to recover.

In statements released by the department, Deputy Martinez shared his gratitude: “Thank you for helping my partner when I couldn’t reach him.”

Deputy Cavazos added: “I appreciate everyone that helped. It could have gone a lot different without you there.”

Sheriff Rowe Thanks the Community

At a news conference, Sheriff Kelly Rowe praised the actions of bystanders and fellow first responders who rushed in to help. He said he appreciated the chance to personally thank citizens who stepped up in such a critical moment.

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Sheriff Rowe also asked anyone who assisted Deputies Cavazos and Martinez to reach out to the Sheriff’s Office so their help can be formally recognized. Citizens can call or text the Public Information Office at 806-620-9077, send a message through the Lubbock County Sheriff’s Office Facebook page, or use the “Contact Us” form on the department’s website or app.

Investigation Ongoing

The Lubbock Police Department’s Major Crash Unit is leading the investigation to determine exactly what caused the semi to strike the parked patrol vehicle. In the background of Sheriff Rowe’s press conference were photos of the patrol unit showing the driver’s side crushed against the guardrail—an image that underscores just how dangerous this crash truly was.

A Call to the Community

The Sheriff’s Office is urging all drivers to remember one simple rule that can prevent tragedies like this: when you see vehicles on the side of the road, slow down and move over. It’s the law, and it protects the men and women who are out there working to keep us safe.

The Bottom Line

Two of Lubbock County’s own are recovering today thanks to the quick actions of Good Samaritans and first responders. Deputies Cavazos and Martinez will continue to heal, and the community they serve is rallying right behind them.