Jefferson County Deputy Constable killed in Winnie I-10 crash

A Jefferson County Reserve Deputy Constable for Pct. 1 has died in a car crash on Interstate 10 in Winnie, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. Heather Avery, 48, was killed Friday during a crash near the Chambers County line, close to mile marker 830. The crash occurred around 7:40 a.m. when a Mack truck going east rear-ended Avery's Ford Explorer that had its emergency lights on, according to a news release from Texas DPS. Avery was helping with traffic control in the outside lane at the time of her death, the department said. Avery was pronounced dead at the scene, while the 30-year-old Mack driver was not injured, according to the department. RELATED: Car crashes through Lumberton coffee shop, smashing front counter "There are no words that you can say or give to bring comfort to those who loved Deputy Heather Avery," Jefferson County Pct. 1 Constable Jeovonne Pollard said in a Facebook post. "I am heartbroken over this loss and join in mourning with her family and loved ones. Although Deputy Avery was a reserve, she relished her role in my office as a firearms expert. My deepest condolences go to her husband, Troy, and her family." Avery was also the Training Director at Freedom Firearms & Defense in Beaumont. She was a "mentor, protector and a pillar of this community," according to owner of Freedom Firearms Drew Davidson. "She dedicated her life to both educating others in safety and defense, and to serving and protecting those around her," Davidson said of Avery in a Facebook post. "Her commitment, courage and wit were unmatched. We ask that you keep Heather’s family, loved ones and fellow officers in your thoughts and prayers during this incredibly difficult time. Heather, we are forever grateful for your service and sacrifice. You will never be forgotten." The investigation into the crash remains ongoing.