Tragedy Strikes San Antonio: Judith Paulsen, Rosalio Aguilera, and Jose Guerra Among Victims of Devastating Multi-Vehicle Crash

A fifth person has been confirmed dead following a devastating multi-vehicle crash on the southbound lanes of Interstate 35 on San Antonio’s Southwest Side. The latest victim has been identified as 79-year-old Judith Paulsen, while two other deceased victims were previously identified as 69-year-old Rosalio Aguilera and 50-year-old Jose Guerra. Authorities have not yet released the names of the remaining two victims.

*The Crash*

The tragic collision took place shortly after 2:45 p.m. on July 17 near Cassin Road, in proximity to the intersection of I-35 and Loop 410. According to San Antonio Police Chief William McManus, the incident began when a stolen white Chevrolet Camaro crashed into a small passenger bus that was towing a trailer. Following the initial impact, the bus veered into a guardrail and was subsequently hit by an 18-wheeler. This secondary collision caused the bus to overturn onto its side, throwing several passengers from the vehicle.

*Investigation and Suspects*

Authorities believe four individuals, possibly including one armed with an assault rifle, fled from the stolen Camaro following the crash. However, a preliminary report from the San Antonio Police Department noted that the exact number of individuals who fled the scene remains unconfirmed, and it did not specify whether any were armed. As of Tuesday, none of the suspects have been located or apprehended.

*Victims and Injuries*

In total, eight people sustained life-threatening injuries, while another 13 individuals suffered less severe wounds and were hospitalized. The San Antonio Fire Department responded quickly to the scene to assist the victims. The age range of those injured spans from young children to senior adults, according to McManus. The severity and diversity of the injuries prompted a significant medical response.

*Medical Response*

University Health, a San Antonio-based medical facility, announced in a social media update on Friday that it had treated 15 patients involved in the crash. Sadly, two of those patients succumbed to their injuries at the hospital on Thursday. As of Monday, July 21, University Health reported that it continued to care for three patients: a child and an adult listed in good condition, and another adult listed in fair condition.

*Judith Paulsen’s Background*

While there’s limited information available about the specific Judith Paulsen involved in the crash, a Judith A. Paulsen passed away on October 28, 2024, in Hibbing, Minnesota. She was 77 years old and left behind a family, including her son, Jim Paulsen, and several grandchildren. Given the age and the fact that Judith Paulsen is not a unique name, it’s possible this could be a different individual, but without more information, it’s hard to determine.

*Community Impact*

This incident has deeply impacted the community and raised serious concerns about reckless driving, the use of stolen vehicles, and public safety on the highways. Law enforcement agencies continue to investigate the incident, with the focus on identifying the suspects who fled the stolen Camaro and determining the full sequence of events that led to the tragic crash. Investigators are also working to officially identify the remaining victims who lost their lives.

*Conclusion*

The devastating multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 35 has left a trail of destruction and heartbreak in its wake. As the community comes together to support the victims and their families, the investigation continues to unfold, and authorities work to bring those responsible to justice. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for vigilance on the highways.