A devastating accident claimed the life of Jason “Scot” Wright, principal of Dalhart High School in Dalhart, Texas. Wright was involved in a head-on collision with a semi-truck.
The crash happened on Highway 87, between Dumas and Hartley, Texas, around 1 a.m. on January 24, 2024.
Wright, 54, was returning home from a basketball game in Tulia, Texas, when his vehicle strayed into oncoming traffic in the eastbound lane, causing the fatal accident.
As per the Texas Department of Public Safety, Wright was heading westbound on US 87 in his 2023 Chevrolet Trailblazer at the time of the accident. Dense fog and low visibility on the highway are believed to have potentially contributed to the collision. Both Wright and the truck driver were using seat belts during the incident.
Following the accident, Wright was transported to Moore County Hospital, where he succumbed to the injuries from the crash. The semi-truck driver was not injured. Texas officials are currently investigating the exact circumstances leading to the accident.
Jeff Byrd, superintendent of Dalhart Independent School District, expressed his grief over Wright’s demise. In a deeply felt statement, Byrd praised Wright’s significant contributions to the school and community, characterizing him as a person of kindness, strength, wisdom, and compassion.
Wright had been serving as the principal of Dalhart High School since 2018, earning recognition as a committed educator and a motivating role model for students and staff alike.
The community of Dalhart, Texas, which has recently experienced several losses, including those of students and a fire chief, is now mourning the loss of Wright, an influential figure in their community.
In light of these tragedies, Byrd emphasized the resilience of the community and the importance of remembering Wright’s positive impact during his time at the school.
Wright is survived by his wife Torri, a school nurse, and their two children. The school district intends to work with students to commemorate Wright’s life and legacy. Memorial services for Wright were conducted at the Dalhart High School auditorium, where community members gathered to honor his contributions and pay their respects.
The investigation into the crash by the Texas Department of Public Safety continues, as they seek to ascertain the precise factors that led to this unfortunate event.
