Three storm chasers pursuing a tornado were killed when their vehicles collided at an intersection near Lubbock, Texas.
Kelley Williamson, 57, and Randy Yarnall, 55, both on contract to The Weather Channel, and Corbin Jaeger, 25, of the storm chasing group Monsoon Madness, died when their SUV and Jeep smashed together on Tuesday, KTVT reported Texas Department of Public Safety Sgt. John Gonzalez as saying.
"A black suburban was traveling north on FM 1081, when it disregarded a stop sign and collided with a Jeep traveling west bound on FM 2794," said Gonzalez.
Williamson, from Cassville, Missouri, was identified as the driver of the Suburban, and Yarnall, also from Cassville, was his passenger, reported KCEN-TV. Jaeger, from Peoria, Arizona, was identified as the driver of the Jeep.
Authorities told KCEN-TV that Williamson was not wearing a seatbelt and was ejected from the SUV.
The Weather Channel issued a statement Tuesday about the accident.
"This afternoon we learned that three people died in a car accident in Texas, including two contractors for the Weather Channel, Kelley Williamson and Randy Yarnall ... Kelley and Randy were beloved members of the weather community. We are saddened by this loss and our deepest sympathies go out to the families and loved ones of all involved."
Monsoon Madness listed Jaeger as one of its storm chasers, according to its Facebook page. Jaeger posted Tuesday that he was in Paducah, Texas, 70 miles east of Spur.
"We would encourage anyone driving down these remote roads to slow down and pay attention to traffic signs especially in inclement weather. It can become dangerous for all involved," said Sgt. Gonzalez.