UPDATE —The Texas Department of Public Safety can confirm that 49-year-old Celso Perez of Orange was the driver of the Chevrolet pickup truck that collided with the 18-wheeler on Highway 62 in Orange County.  Perez was pronounced deceased at the crash scene.

The driver of the 18-wheeler was treated for minor injuries at the scene and released.

All northbound and southbound traffic lanes of Highway 62 remain closed.  Motorists are urged to find alternate travel routes.

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PRESS RELEASE — Preliminary reports indicate that a Chevrolet pickup truck was traveling southbound on Highway 62.  A truck tractor semi-trailer was traveling northbound on Highway 62.  For an unknown reason, the driver of the Chevrolet pickup truck lost control, crossed the center dividing line and collided with the 18-wheeler.

The driver of the Chevrolet pickup truck was pronounced deceased at the crash scene.

The driver of the 18-wheeler was injured; however, the extent of his injuries are unknown at this time.

Both northbound and southbound lanes of Highway 62 remain closed.  There is no time estimation as to when the roadway will reopen to traffic.