A tragic accident in June 2022 claimed five lives in Weld County, Colorado, when a semi-truck slammed into a car waiting in traffic. The truck, carrying mail for the United States Postal Service (USPS), was driven by Jesus Puebla, who lacked a valid CDL.
The details: Puebla’s truck, traveling at 70 mph, had faulty brakes and was not insured. The USPS contracted a company, Caminantes, that subcontracted to an unapproved firm, Lucky 22.
- This subcontracting was illegal, yet the truck was still loaded with mail and allowed on the road.
- Puebla has been sentenced to 11 years in prison for vehicular homicide, but the families of the victims demand further accountability.
The legal battle: A lawsuit against the USPS argues its failure to enforce rules allowed this tragedy to happen. The USPS seeks dismissal, citing government immunity and lack of knowledge about the subcontractor's details, reported 9 News.
Lawyers for the victims contend the trucking contracts must include responsibility for safe operations and legal compliance. They stress a "cascade of failures" led to the crash.
The case continues, with the USPS claiming it isn’t liable. The outcome remains uncertain, as the affected family seeks justice and accountability from all responsible parties.