Georgetown, September 5, 2025
News Summary
An 18-wheeler crash on Interstate 35 in Georgetown has resulted in injuries to two individuals and significant damage to the Hwy 29 bridge. The truck, which was transporting an excavator exceeding height limits, struck the bridge and caused it to collapse. Emergency responders and TxDOT quickly assessed the situation and worked on repairs, leading to partial reopening of the highway by September 4. Ongoing investigations are seeking witnesses to the incident.
Georgetown, Texas – An 18-wheeler crash occurred on September 2 just before 2 p.m. on Interstate 35, injuring two individuals and causing significant damage to the Hwy 29 bridge. The incident led to immediate closure of the southbound lanes of I-35 and the highway overpass, drawing attention from both law enforcement and emergency services.
The crash involved the 18-wheeler and five other vehicles, resulting in two persons being hospitalized. Of those hospitalized, one is reported to be in critical but stable condition. The preliminary investigation revealed that the 18-wheeler, which was hauling an excavator, struck the Hwy 29 bridge, leading to its collapse. At the time of the incident, the truck had just started its route from a local business north of Lakeway Drive and entered I-35 just south of that point.
The truck had previously cleared two other bridges with height restrictions exceeding 19 feet, specifically Northwest Boulevard and Williams Drive. However, the Hwy 29 bridge has a posted height limit of 15 feet and 9 inches, while the actual height is recorded at 16 feet and 5 inches. The excavator being transported was significantly taller at 18 feet and 5 inches, leading to its collision with the bridge.
The driver of the 18-wheeler, a 61-year-old male from Jonestown, was only authorized to transport loads not surpassing 14 feet 9 inches. He has a valid commercial driver’s license, and it is important to note that the investigation is ongoing with no arrests or charges made as of yet.
Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, and the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) worked overnight to assess the damage and begin repairs on the bridge. By the morning of September 4, both the southbound lanes of I-35 and the Hwy 29 bridge had reopened, although the bridge had been reduced to one lane to ensure safety and continue repair work.
Witnesses have reported seeing the incident, including the driver Brett Parks, who captured dash camera footage of the moment the collision occurred. The Georgetown Police Department has acknowledged community concerns regarding the crash and emphasized their thoughts for those affected by the incident.
According to TxDOT, there may be future closures for repairs as they continue their damage assessment. Authorities are currently encouraging anyone who witnessed the crash to reach out to the Georgetown Police Department at 512-930-3510 to assist in the ongoing investigation.
Background
This incident adds to ongoing conversations about the safety of overpasses and the responsibility of truck drivers to adhere to height restrictions. Originally designed for specific load heights, many overpasses are susceptible to accidents involving taller vehicles, highlighting the importance of compliance with established limits.
Timeline of Events
- September 2, 2023: 2:00 PM – 18-wheeler crashes into the Hwy 29 bridge.
- September 2, 2023: Emergency responders and TxDOT arrive on the scene.
- September 3, 2023: Road closures are implemented while inspections and repairs are conducted.
- September 4, 2023: Southbound lanes of I-35 and the Hwy 29 bridge are reopened with one lane available.
FAQs
What caused the crash on I-35 in Georgetown?
The crash was caused when an 18-wheeler, transporting an excavator that exceeded the height limit of the Hwy 29 bridge, struck the overpass.
How many people were injured in the accident?
Two individuals were hospitalized as a result of the crash, with one in critical but stable condition.
What measures are being taken for the damaged bridge?
TxDOT is assessing the damage and performing repairs. Future lane closures may be necessary for ongoing repairs.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Date of Accident | September 2, 2023 |
| Location | I-35, Georgetown, Texas |
| Injured | Two individuals, one in critical condition |
| Vehicles Involved | 1 x 18-wheeler, 5 other vehicles |
| Height Limit of Bridge | 15 feet 9 inches (actual height 16 feet 5 inches) |
| Excavator Height | 18 feet 5 inches |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing, no arrests or charges yet |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- KVUE: Georgetown Crash
- Wikipedia: Georgetown, Texas
- KXAN: Overpass Collision
- Google Search: Georgetown I-35 Crash
- FOX 7 Austin: I-35 Shutdown
- Google Scholar: Georgetown Bridge Crashes
- CBS Austin: 18-Wheeler Collision
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Highway Safety
- KVUE: TxDOT Updates on Crash
- Google News: I-35 Georgetown Accident
Author: STAFF HERE GEORGETOWN
The GEORGETOWN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREgeorgetown.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Georgetown, Williamson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Red Poppy Festival, Georgetown Swirl, and Christmas Stroll. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Georgetown Association, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and tourism that power the local economy such as local wineries and historic downtown shops. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
