With deep sorrow, we mourn the loss of Lonnie Kramer, age 76, of Arkansas, who tragically lost his life in a fatal traffic collision on the Galveston Causeway on Monday afternoon.
The crash occurred at approximately 1:45 p.m. in the northbound lanes of Interstate 45, at the base of the Galveston Causeway. Lonnie was driving a Jeep when it rear-ended a flatbed truck under circumstances that remain under investigation. Witness accounts indicate the flatbed truck appeared to be stopped in a middle travel lane, though authorities have not confirmed whether it was disabled or stopped in an active lane at the time.
A nearby motorist, Bonnie Thomas, said she narrowly avoided striking the flatbed truck as traffic approached from Harborside Drive. Traveling at about 55 miles per hour, she passed the truck on the right and moments later saw Lonnie’s Jeep collide with the rear of the flatbed.
“The Jeep hit it full force — like a brick wall,” Thomas said. “It all happened in just a few seconds.”
The crash impacted additional vehicles in the area. A small passenger vehicle carrying a woman and children sustained minor damage, and another vehicle struck a retaining wall while attempting to avoid the collision scene.
Lonnie Kramer was transported to UTMB Health’s John Sealy Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Authorities confirmed his death following medical treatment.
The Galveston Police Department continues to actively investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Lonnie’s passing leaves a profound void in the lives of his family, friends, and all who knew him. He is remembered not for the tragic manner of his death, but for the life he lived and the memories he leaves behind.
May Lonnie Kramer rest in peace, and may comfort and strength surround his loved ones during this time of mourning.
