Eduardo Gaytan Arrested: Midland Man Charged With Manslaughter After Fatal DUI Crash That Killed Odessa Motorcyclist

A 19-year-old Midland resident, Eduardo Gaytan, has been charged with manslaughter following a fatal crash that claimed the life of a motorcyclist from Odessa late Saturday night, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

The collision occurred around 11:24 p.m. on May 30 at the intersection of South Fairgrounds Road and Cloverdale Road in Midland County.

Investigators said 47-year-old William Smedley of Odessa was riding a 2021 Ducati motorcycle southbound on Fairgrounds Road when a northbound 2013 Hyundai Sonata crossed into his lane while attempting to pass another vehicle. Authorities reported that the Hyundai was also being driven without headlights, despite nighttime conditions requiring their use.

The vehicles collided, and Smedley sustained critical injuries. He was transported to Midland Memorial Hospital, where he later died.

Gaytan, who was driving the Hyundai, was not injured.

According to court documents, Gaytan admitted to consuming alcohol before the crash. Investigators stated that he initially reported having six drinks but later said he had consumed eight. Troopers at the scene reportedly observed signs of intoxication, including bloodshot eyes, the smell of alcohol, balance issues, and difficulty walking.

He was arrested on suspicion of driving while intoxicated and agreed to provide a blood sample for testing. While authorities were processing the case, they received notification that Smedley had died from his injuries.

Following Smedley’s death, Gaytan was charged with manslaughter involving a motor vehicle and booked into the Midland County Detention Center. He also faces multiple traffic-related citations, including driving without headlights, improper passing, driving on the wrong side of the roadway in a no-passing zone, and violating driver’s license restrictions.

The Texas Department of Public Safety continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.