Semitruck crash kills two teens

MUSTANG RIDGE, Texas (KXAN) - An accident on Texas Highway 21 involving an 18-wheeler killed two teens and injured a third.

The Wednesday accident happened at 6:44 p.m. in the 17600 block of Texas Highway 21 involved two other vehicles, in addition to the semitruck.

Officials said the 18-wheeler was traveling westbound on Texas 21 when it struck the two eastbound vehicles and lost control on the wet roadway.

The eastbound Maroon 2000 Mazda 626 was occupied by the following three teenagers: Deimie Castelan and Bernice Castelan, both 18 and from Lockhart; and Zared Castelan, 16, of Dale.

Bernice and Zared died at the scene, and Deimie was transported to University Medical Center Brackenridge in critical condition. Records on Friday indicated she has since improved and is in fair condition.

"They were all good girls and this should not have happened to them at all," said Justin Martinez, a classmate and friend of the victims.  

All were students at Lockhart High School. School officials brought in counselors to talk with students or staff members who needed support.

The school district issued a statement :

"The district is very saddened by the unexpected loss of these students. In our small and and caring district, losing a child is in many regards like losing a family member."

"It's been quiet the last few days in the hallway," said Martinez. "Everybody's trying to get everything together. Everybody's just putting their thoughts and prayers out for Deimie."

Zered Castelan was a Junior, her cousin Bernice Castelan was a senior, schedule to graduate in May 2010. Bernice's sister Deimie was the lone survivor.

The eastbound Gray 2002 Ford Van was occupied by Patty Patrick, 56 of Cibolo, Texas. She was transported to Brackenridge in fair condition on Wednesday, but records Friday indicate she has since been released.

Meanwhile, the westbound white 2001 Volvo Tractor Truck was occupied by Francisco Ponce, 42 of Laredo. Ponce suffered minor injuries and was transported to Brackenridge as well on Wednesday but also has records that indicate he has been released.

This accident is still under investigation by the Mustang Ridge Police Department and the Texas Department of Public Safety.

While charges have not been filed, officials said they are pending.