A Dalton, Ga., couple was killed Wednesday when their vehicle was struck head-on at Batesville, Tex., by a vehicle believed to be involved in human smuggling. Five people, including several Honduran nationals, died in the vehicle that struck them.
Authorities said the incident began when officers began pursuing a Honda with multiple passengers. The vehicle, with Houston plates, tried to get away.
The wreck on Highway 57 happened when the driver of the Honda tried to overtake an 18-wheeler truck in a no-passing zone.
That led to a direct collision with a Chevy SUV occupied by Jose Lerma, 67, and Isabel Lerma, 65.
The Chevy burst into flames upon impact.