Investigators found that Weldekeal-Araya’s truck collided with a 2013 Volkswagen Jetta and a 2006 Chevrolet Silverado at the end of the line of traffic. The 18-wheeler continued into the congested area for about 0.1 miles, causing a pileup involving 13 additional vehicles before finally coming to a stop on the left shoulder.

The crash occurred in a 2.2-mile short-term work zone for an overnight pavement resurfacing project that started at 9 p.m. and was scheduled to finish at 3:30 a.m. on March 14. During this time, three lanes were reduced to one, and the speed limit was lowered from 70 mph to 60 mph.

Weldekeal-Araya was arrested and charged with five counts of intoxication manslaughter with a vehicle, among other charges. However, his attorney stated that a toxicology report showed there were no drugs or alcohol in his system at the time of the crash.

The NTSB’s report highlights that the lane closures due to construction work created significant traffic congestion near mile marker 245.4 on I-35. Aerial footage from the scene indicated the severity of the collision, with all four occupants of the Volkswagen and one passenger in the Chevrolet losing their lives. The remaining individuals in the involved vehicles suffered injuries ranging from minor to serious, while the truck driver emerged unscathed.

The investigation involved contributions from the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, the Texas Department of Transportation, and the Austin Police Department. Additionally, one of the injured parties has filed a lawsuit seeking over $100 million in damages against Weldekeal-Araya, the trucking company, and Amazon.