Tragic Crash in Odessa: Woman Killed in High-Speed Dodge Challenger Test Drive

Introduction

A mother of three from Texas lost her life in a devastating accident when a high-speed Dodge Challenger test drive turned fatal. The incident occurred in Odessa, Texas, where the Dodge Challenger, traveling at speeds exceeding 120 mph in a 45 mph zone, collided with the victim’s Honda Accord. The impact was so severe that the woman was ejected from her vehicle and pronounced dead at the scene.

The Test Drive and Suspect

The 2021 Challenger R/T Scat Pack, driven by Benjamin Meece, was on a test drive from All American Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Odessa. Meece, a driver with a history of over 25 arrests, fled the scene but was later apprehended while hiding in a nearby backyard.

Wrongful Death Lawsuit

The victim’s three children have filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the driver, the salesman, and the dealership, holding them responsible for the tragic incident. The lawsuit seeks justice for their mother’s untimely demise.

The Accident Details

The accident occurred in June at the intersection of East University Drive and Oakwood Drive. Surveillance footage and data from the Dodge’s black box revealed that the vehicle was traveling at 124 mph with the throttle at 100% when it collided with the victim’s Honda Accord.

A Heartbreaking Encounter

In a cruel twist of fate, the victim’s daughter, Natasha, drove past the accident scene while on her way to get coffee and witnessed her mother lying on the pavement. The emotional impact of seeing her mother’s lifeless body added to the tragedy.

Legal Action Against Salesman

Although the salesman, Kenneth Salas, was not behind the wheel during the incident, the victim’s children are also pursuing legal action against him. They argue that Salas should not have allowed Meece to drive at such high speeds, citing social media posts that indicate a history of allowing fast test drives.

Seeking Accountability

Ryan Zehl of Zehl & Associates, the legal firm representing the victim’s family, emphasizes the need for accountability. He states, “Benjamin Meece had no business being allowed behind the wheel in the first place. On top of that, his recklessness and negligence were enabled by a man trying to make a sale. We want to ensure that Mr. Meece, Mr. Salas, and the dealership are held accountable for their actions.”

Image credits: NewsWest 9