Troopers seek help in hit-and-run death

Gregg County Texas Highway Patrol troopers are investigating a fatality accident involving multiple vehicles and a single pedestrian late Monday night on FM 1252, two miles northwest of Kilgore.

At 9 p.m. Monday night, troopers and Gregg County sheriff 's deputies responded to a reported vehicle-pedestrian accident on FM 1252 near its intersection with River Road.

According to Jonathan Anderson, investigating trooper, "Clifford Gray, 57, of Kilgore was crossing FM 1252, on foot, going to a relative's home, when he was hit in the roadway by at least two vehicles." Justice of the Peace Talyna Carlson held an inquest at the scene of the accident and ordered Gray's body be taken to the Southeast Forensics in Tyler for an autopsy. Results of the autopsy are expected later in the week.

Yesterday, local law enforcement began a search for at least two vehicles believed involved in the accident, neither of which stopped, according to Mike Claxton, sheriff 's lieutenant. According to the initial information developed through interviews by state troopers, law enforcement personnel are looking for a white single cab pick-up truck believed to be a Ford Ranger and a green colored mini-van which resembles a Chrysler or Dodge styled van.

"It is unfortunate these motorists continued on after the accident," Anderson said yesterday. "We intend to expend a lot of effort searching for these two vehicles - and, of course, their drivers."

Anderson went on to say "It's not too late to contact us, if you are the motorist involved in this investigation. Meanwhile we will continue to investigate this and search for the responsible persons."

Claxton urges the motorists to come forward as well as others who may have information. Call with information to Crime Stoppers at 903-236-STOP or contact Anderson at 903-758- 1789.