Passenger Veronica Cerda Dead in I-45 Head-On Crash [Leona, TX]

Leona, TX (May 12, 2025) – Veronica Cerda, 53, along with other four people, were killed in an I-45 head-on crash Saturday afternoon.

The fatal two-vehicle crash happened around 3:17 p.m. in Leona.

According to the investigators, a 2016 Dodge pickup was in the southbound lanes when the vehicle went off the road and hit a guard rail. 

Afterward, the pickup went into the center median, vaulted over the cable barrier and struck head-on a northbound 2023 Ford F-150.

Both vehicles caught on fire.

The authorities said the Ford’s driver, Hermenegildo Melendez, 55, of Houston, was killed at the crash scene.

Sadly, the passengers in the Ford, Veronica Cerda, 53; Veronica Denise Cerda, 26; Rebecca Cerda, 20; and Daniela Cerda, 18, were also declared dead at the scene.

Moreover, the rescuers rushed the driver of the Dodge, Toriano Fair, 43, of Dallas, to CHI St. Joseph Regional Hospital in Bryan with serious injuries.

The authorities are still investigating this fatal collision.

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Our hearts go out to the family and loved ones of Veronica Denise Cerda, Veronica Cerda, Rebecca Cerda, Daniela Cerda, and Hermenegildo Melendez. Our thoughts are with you during this difficult time. Similarly, we wish Toriano Fair a fast recovery from his injuries.

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If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal accident, it’s essential to seek legal representation as soon as possible. A wrongful death attorney can guide you through the legal complexities, gather crucial evidence, and handle communications with insurance companies. With the right legal support, your family can focus on grieving and healing, knowing that your rights are being protected.

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https://youtu.be/39lIy8RR5iE?si=GKFzohpaUVNPrjnR

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Meanwhile, in L.A., CA, a person was killed in a 3-vehicle crash on N Van Ness Avenue late Friday night.