JONES COUNTY, TEXAS — A tragic hit-and-run incident in Jones County has left a community in mourning and sparked an ongoing investigation by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). On the night of Tuesday, May 14, 40-year-old Jamie Salazar of Hamlin was found dead in the northbound lanes of U.S. Highway 83.
Authorities have confirmed she was struck and killed by a vehicle that fled the scene.
The initial call to law enforcement came at approximately 10:30 p.m., when a passing driver reported seeing a body lying on the road about half a mile north of Farm-to-Market Road 3326.
The witness, who remained at the scene, told DPS officers that she had not seen any vehicles in the area and was unfamiliar with the woman.
DPS troopers arrived shortly after to secure the scene and begin an investigation. According to the agency’s media release issued Thursday, a purse located near the body contained identification confirming the deceased as Jamie Salazar.
The agency noted that there were no immediate signs pointing to a suspect vehicle, nor were there other witnesses present at the time of discovery.
Investigation Underway with Limited Leads
Authorities say the case is being treated as a hit-and-run. No vehicle debris or tire marks were recovered that could identify the type of car involved. DPS confirmed that blood evidence was collected from the body and sent for analysis.
An autopsy has also been ordered to determine the exact cause of death and whether Salazar may have been struck more than once.
“Right now, we are depending on forensics and the public’s help,” a DPS spokesperson said. “Any information, no matter how small, could help us solve this case.”
Community Shocked by Sudden Loss
In Hamlin, a small town located in neighboring Fisher County, word of Salazar’s death has spread quickly. Friends, family members, and local residents have taken to social media to mourn her passing and demand justice.
“She was kind and well-loved,” one family friend wrote. “This is not the way anyone should be left. Someone out there knows something.”
Salazar’s sudden and unexplained death has left the community with many unanswered questions. Why she was walking or standing in the roadway remains unclear, and DPS has not yet released any information suggesting she was accompanied by anyone.
What Texas Law Says About Hit-and-Runs
Under Texas law, leaving the scene of an accident resulting in death is a felony of the second degree. Penalties for a conviction can include a prison sentence of two to 20 years and a fine of up to $10,000. The law requires drivers involved in crashes to stop and render aid or face severe criminal consequences.
Statistics from the Texas Department of Transportation show that hit-and-run fatalities remain a serious issue across the state. In 2022, more than 600 people were killed in hit-and-run crashes, with thousands more injured. While DPS and local law enforcement continue to investigate such cases, many remain unsolved without help from the public.
Call for Witnesses and Tips
DPS officials are urging anyone who traveled along U.S. Highway 83 between 9:30 and 11:00 p.m. Tuesday to come forward, particularly those who may have dashcam footage or recall seeing anything unusual in the area.
“We’re asking the public to be our eyes and ears,” said the DPS spokesperson. “Even if you think what you saw isn’t important, it might be the piece that leads to an arrest.”
Anonymous tips can be submitted through the Texas Crime Stoppers program, which allows individuals to report information without revealing their identity. Law enforcement officials say community assistance is often critical in solving crimes of this nature, especially when no physical evidence or video surveillance is available.
Family Awaits Answers
As the investigation continues, Salazar’s family is left grieving and waiting for answers. They are hopeful that advances in forensic testing and support from the community will help bring the person responsible to justice.
Meanwhile, DPS investigators continue to follow up on all leads and examine evidence collected from the scene and the victim. An autopsy may offer more insight into whether Salazar was killed instantly or may have been left in the road before the fatal impact.
Conclusion
The tragic death of Jamie Salazar in a suspected hit-and-run has left a Texas community in shock and law enforcement scrambling for answers. With no clear leads and little physical evidence, the investigation will rely heavily on forensic analysis and public input.
Officials encourage anyone with information, no matter how minor, to contact the DPS Abilene District Office or submit a tip through Crime Stoppers. As of now, the case remains open, and the search for the driver responsible continues.
Disclaimer – Our team has carefully fact-checked this article to make sure it’s accurate and free from any misinformation. We’re dedicated to keeping our content honest and reliable for our readers.