Hope, Arkansas — July 21, 2025 — The Arkansas State Police (ASP) has launched a comprehensive investigation into a devastating series of crashes that occurred early Monday morning along the westbound lanes of Interstate 30 between Hope and Fulton. The tragic events claimed the lives of Jonathan Gary Williams, Jonathan Garcia, and Javier Rivera, while several others were left injured in a morning that has shaken the local community and first responders alike.
ARDOT Worker Jonathan Gary Williams Killed in Hit-and-Run
At approximately 1:00 a.m., 44-year-old Jonathan Gary Williams of Sherwood was killed in a fatal hit-and-run near the 18-mile marker. Williams, a contractor with the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), was working from a specialized trailer, applying reflective markers to the highway’s center line when a 2004 Buick Century veered into the work zone and struck him.
The driver of the Buick abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot, leaving Williams fatally injured. Despite emergency response, he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities are actively searching for the suspect and are urging anyone with information to come forward. Williams’ death has devastated his colleagues and serves as a painful reminder of the risks faced by roadside workers every day.
Second Crash Leads to Minor Injuries
Just over an hour later, around 2:15 a.m., state troopers responded to a second crash near the 19-mile marker, involving two vehicles. Fortunately, this collision resulted in only minor injuries, and those involved were treated at the scene. However, the incident added further congestion and strain to the unfolding emergency response efforts.
Multi-Vehicle Wreck Kills Jonathan Garcia and Javier Rivera
A third and even more catastrophic crash occurred shortly after, near the 20-mile marker. This collision involved three tractor-trailers and a pickup truck carrying four people. The violent impact killed Jonathan Garcia, 25, and Javier Rivera, 61—both residents of Hope, Arkansas—who were passengers in the pickup.
The driver and another passenger sustained serious injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency care. Their current conditions have not yet been released to the public. The drivers of the semi-trucks were not reported to be critically injured.
Highway Shutdown and Continuing Investigation
Following the incidents, authorities shut down the westbound lanes of I-30 between Hope and Fulton to conduct investigations and clear the wreckage. One westbound lane reopened at 9:00 a.m., with full traffic restored by noon.
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ASP Urges Caution in Work Zones
In a public statement, ASP officials emphasized the importance of vigilance when driving through work zones:
“This has been a heartbreaking morning. The loss of life—including Jonathan Gary Williams, Jonathan Garcia, and Javier Rivera—is a tragedy that could have been prevented. We urge drivers to slow down, stay alert, and take extra care in active work zones. Lives depend on it.”
Anyone with information related to the hit-and-run driver who killed Jonathan Gary Williams is asked to contact the Arkansas State Police immediately.
This tragic day underscores the critical need for public awareness, responsible driving, and the unwavering commitment to the safety of all those working and traveling on Arkansas highways.
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