Woman killed after pickup crashes into Big Spring motel

BIG SPRING, Texas (KMID/KPEJ)- A woman was killed after a pickup truck crashed into a Big Spring motel early Friday morning, according to the Big Spring Police Department. Officials report that police were dispatched around 5:01 a.m. on June 5 to the Deluxe Inn, located in the 400 block of North Gregg Street, in reference to a crash. Upon arrival, officers reported that a black 2022 GMC Sierra 1500 pickup truck had struck the building and was partially lodged inside the office area. A preliminary investigation found the driver, identified as Alonso Moreno, 21, was traveling south in the 500 block of North Lamesa Street when he failed to maintain a single lane of travel, crossed into the opposing lane, and struck the west side of the building. During the investigation, officers learned that a woman inside the building had been sleeping at the time of the crash. Police identified her as Vaishali Patel, 46. Patel suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by Justice of the Peace Campbell. Authorities said her family was notified and responded to the scene. Moreno was taken by ambulance to Shannon Medical Center in Big Spring for medical evaluation and treatment. He was later released. The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash and whether any criminal charges will be filed. No additional information is available for release at this time.