Jason “Scot” Wright, the principal of Dalhart High School in Dalhaart, Texas, tragically lost his life in a fatal accident involving a tractor-trailer.
The incident took place on Highway 87, between Dumas and Hartley, Texas, around 1 a.m. on January 24, 2024.
Wright, 54, was returning from basketball games in Tulia, Texas when his vehicle drifted into the eastbound lane and collided head-on with a tractor-trailer towing a semi-trailer.
As per the Texas Department of Public Safety, Wright was driving his 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer westbound on US 87 when the accident happened. Dense fog and low visibility conditions reported on the highway may have contributed to the collision. It was confirmed that both Wright and the truck driver had their seat belts fastened during the incident.
Following the crash, Wright was rushed to Moore County Hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The semi-truck driver escaped unscathed. The cause of the accident is still under investigation by Texas authorities.
The Dalhart Independent School District Superintendent, Jeff Byrd, expressed profound grief over Wright’s untimely death. He emphasized Wright’s significant contributions to the school and community, commending him as a person of kindness, wisdom, and compassion.
Since assuming the role of principal of Dalhart High School in 2018, Wright had been recognized as an exceptional educator and a source of inspiration for both students and staff alike.
The Dalhart community has recently suffered multiple losses, including the passing of students and a fire chief.
Superintendent Byrd, while acknowledging these tragedies, underscored the community’s resilience and the need to honor Wright’s positive influence during his time at the school.
Wright leaves behind his wife Torri, a school nurse, and their two children. The school district intends to work with students to celebrate Wright’s life and legacy. A memorial service was held at the Dalhart High School auditorium, where community members came together to honor his memory and contributions.
The Texas Department of Public Safety is continuing its investigation into the crash to pinpoint the exact factors that led to this unfortunate event.
