Slick tires, wind and rain are believed to have contributed to a fatal 2-vehicle wreck at Hwy. 155 South and Chinaberry Road early Tuesday evening, said Department of Public Safety Trooper Walt Smith, who worked the accident.

The wreck occurred at 6:10 p.m.

According to Smith, James Wade, 51, of Pittsburg was headed home from a doctor’s appointment in Tyler when he crossed the centerline and his 2007 Chevrolet Silverado collided with a 2006 Isuzu single-axle box truck which was southbound. It was driven by Hussein Hilo, 31, of Grand Prairie. The vehicles hit head-on.

Wade was pronounced dead at the scene by Upshur County Pct. 3 Justice of the Peace Rhonda Welch. Hussein was treated and released from Good Shepherd Medical Center in Longview. A passenger in his vehicle was treated and released from East Texas Medical Center Gilmer.

“There were slick tires on Mr. Wade’s vehicle,” said Smith. “There was no tread on the front, and very little on the back.”

He said that it is believed that Wade hydroplaned, losing control due to the strong crosswind and rain.

Smith said that there had been reports that Wade was seen weaving south of Big Sandy, but Smith said he “didn’t smell alcohol, and there was nothing to indicate he was under the influence of any medication.”

He did custodial work in Pittsburg.

Johnson Funeral Home of Pittsburg is in charge of arrangements.

gilmermirror@gmail.com