Newly released findings from the National Transportation Safety Board are shedding light on the moments leading up to a deadly multi-vehicle crash on Interstate 35 in North Austin last year.
The crash, which occurred March 13, 2025, involved a semi-truck driven by 37-year-old Solomun Weldekeal Araya and resulted in a massive pileup that killed five people and injured more than a dozen others.
According to the NTSB’s latest report, investigators found no evidence that Araya suffered a medical emergency at the time of the crash. Toxicology tests also confirmed there were no drugs or alcohol in his system.
The report instead focuses heavily on the driver’s activity and rest schedule in the days leading up to the crash. Investigators found that Araya had limited opportunities for sleep, including as little as four hours of rest on some nights, raising concerns about potential fatigue.
Phone records reviewed by investigators show the driver had been active on his phone prior to the crash, including making calls and using apps. However, officials say there is no indication he was actively using the device at the exact moment of impact.
Authorities have previously alleged that Araya was traveling at unsafe speeds through a construction zone on I-35 and failed to slow down or maintain proper awareness before slamming into stopped traffic.
The crash ultimately involved more than a dozen vehicles and stretched for hundreds of feet along the highway.
Araya has since been indicted on multiple felony charges, including counts of manslaughter and aggravated assault, in connection with the crash.
His attorney has argued that the NTSB’s findings support the defense’s position that the crash was a tragic accident rather than a criminal act, citing the lack of impairment and other contributing factors.
The NTSB emphasized that the investigation remains ongoing. Officials say the information released so far is part of a public docket and does not include final conclusions about the cause of the crash or any safety recommendations.
A final report from the agency is expected at a later date.
