A 32-year-old Searcy man was killed Sunday morning, October 11, 2026, when the semi-truck he was driving left Interstate 49 near Fayetteville, struck multiple trees and caught fire, according to the Arkansas State Police.
The victim was identified as Dustin Kelly Garvin, 32, of Searcy, Arkansas.
According to the preliminary fatal crash summary, the accident occurred at approximately 9:30 AM on Interstate 49 northbound near mile marker 59 in Washington County.
Garvin was driving a 2019 Volvo semi-truck northbound when the crash occurred.
## SEMI-TRUCK LEAVES INTERSTATE AND STRIKES MULTIPLE TREES
Arkansas State Police investigators reported that Garvin’s semi-truck left the roadway and struck multiple trees.
According to the preliminary crash narrative, the truck’s trailer then struck the rear of the cab and became engulfed in flames.
The violent sequence of events resulted in the death of the Searcy driver.
The preliminary crash report lists 1 fatality and no additional injuries.
Authorities have not released additional information explaining why the semi-truck left the interstate.
## TRAILER CATCHES FIRE FOLLOWING COLLISION
The Arkansas State Police crash summary describes a serious collision involving the semi-truck and multiple trees along Interstate 49.
After the truck left the roadway, its trailer struck the back of the cab and caught fire.
The preliminary report does not identify what the truck was hauling or whether its cargo contributed to the fire.
It also does not provide details about the fire department response or how long the roadway may have been affected.
Investigators have not released a final determination concerning the cause of the crash.
## CLEAR WEATHER AND DRY ROAD CONDITIONS
Arkansas State Police reported clear weather and dry pavement at the time of the accident.
The crash occurred Sunday morning at approximately 9:30 AM.
The preliminary report does not identify adverse weather or wet road conditions as contributing factors.
Investigators have not established whether mechanical problems, driver-related factors or another circumstance caused the semi-truck to leave Interstate 49.
## ARKANSAS STATE POLICE INVESTIGATING FATAL CRASH
Trooper Christopher Belt, badge number 53, is listed as the investigating officer.
According to the report, Garvin’s body was held by the Washington County Coroner.
The report also confirms that next of kin have been notified.
The collision is listed as Fatal Crash Number 372 and Accident Number 356 in the Arkansas State Police preliminary fatal crash records for 2026.
## SEARCY COMMUNITY LOSES RESIDENT IN FATAL CRASH
Garvin was identified by Arkansas State Police as a resident of Searcy in White County.
Although the fatal crash occurred in Washington County near Fayetteville, the victim’s connection to Searcy brings the tragedy closer to home for residents of north-central Arkansas.
The collision is another reminder of the serious consequences that can result when a large commercial vehicle leaves the roadway.
The Arkansas State Police investigation remains preliminary, and additional details may be released.
For continuing coverage of Arkansas breaking news and fatal traffic accidents, visit ArkansasRadio.com.
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