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KILGORE, Texas (KLTV) - First responders were called to a fatal wreck on I-20 north of Kilgore on Sunday, after an SUV flew into oncoming traffic at 93 miles per hour, police said. More details have been shared on what took place.

According to a release from the Kilgore Police Department, responders were dispatched to I-20 near Highway 42 at about 4:40 p.m. after a silver SUV traveling west became airborne and crossed the eastbound traffic lanes at about 93 miles per hour, striking a truck and livestock trailer in midair. Police say it is unknown why the SUV initially left its lane, but investigation continues.

One person was ejected during the crash, and others had to be extracted by Kilgore Rescue and Fire Department, authorities said. CHRISTUS sent two helicopters and several ambulances, while Wallace Wrecker brought specialized equipment to get the mangled trailer open, so volunteers could retrieve equipment.

First responders are on the scene of a crash on I-20 near Highway 42. Credit: Viewer media

The SUV was carrying a family from Louisiana, and the eastbound truck held a family from Florida that had been at a junior livestock show in Waco, police said. They were traveling back with a stock trailer carrying show Brangus, but the animals did not survive.

One family was in more critical condition, police said, and was airlifted to Tyler. The other family was taken to a hospital in Longview, and one child was later airlifted to a hospital in Dallas. Police said the family has been grateful to learn on Monday that the girl will not require surgery.

Over three to four hours, Kilgore Fire Department, Kilgore Rescue, CHRISTUS EMS ground and air, Kilgore Police Department and their chaplains, Texas DPS, Gregg County authorities, Sabine Fire Department and TxDOT assisted in responding to the crash.

Police said bystanders also got involved to attempt to help take care of the livestock and gather the family’s possessions after they became strewn across the crash site. Several trucks with livestock trailers that may have been involved in the livestock show came by to help the Florida family, police said, and some civilians even accompanied those injured in the crash to the hospital. Kilgore Police Department chaplains helped others at the hospital arrange needed lodging.

“Amid a tragedy, you see good people doing good things!” police said. “Always wear your seatbelt and prepare yourself for long trips. Life can change in the blink of an eye.”