Trucker Killed , $1M in Cash Burns In Trailer Fire
A trucker has been killed and $1 million dollars in cash have been burnt up in a bizarre series of events that took place on I-20 near Waskom, TX at around 4:00a.m.
Atlas Van Lines driver Eric Royster of North Carolina’s vehicle caught fire when the friction from his trailer brakes catching got to be too much and flames broke out. Royster and his co-driver jumped out, detached the tractor from the trailer, and stood across the roadway.
Unfortunately, as Royster was taking pictures of his burning rig from a safe distance, he was struck and killed by a pickup truck driver who apparently didn’t see him due to his dark clothing.
When authorities arrived on the scene, they discovered $1 million in cash wrapped in plastic wrap and in aluminum foil which was hidden in the trailer along with two loads of furniture. According to authorities, the amount and manner in which the money was packed indicates that it was likely tied in with organized crime.
Royster’s co-driver denied he had any knowledge of the money and no one has come forward to claim it. After a full week of counting the money, the sheriff reported that they were able to count and salvage about three quarters of a million dollars, with an estimated $250,000 lost to the flames. Assuming it isn’t claimed by a legitimate source, the money will be shared between the sheriff’s office and the district attorney’s office.
Sources: newsobserver, marshalnewsmessenger, ketknbc, chron, TruckersReport
Image Source: Harrison County Sheriff’s Office
