Justice on the Road: Renewed Hope in Cold Case of Lady Trucker Found Dead in Texas

Over a decade has passed since 51-year-old truck driver Lillian Desiree Descoteau was found dead on the side of an East Texas highway. Today, the trucking industry is rallying once again as authorities renew efforts to solve this cold case—offering a $6,000 reward for any information that may lead to an arrest.

Descoteau, a dedicated driver with a life on the road, was discovered on October 7, 2013, by fellow truckers on an entrance ramp to Interstate 20 off FM 450 in Hallsville, Texas. She had short blonde hair, wore a light blue hoodie, and a single stud earring. Investigators determined she had been beaten, strangled, and possibly sexually assaulted just hours before her body was found. Her truck was never located.

Known for living a transient lifestyle, Descoteau called many places home—Alaska, Colorado, Ohio, Georgia, Maryland, Louisiana—but her last known residence was in Irving, Texas, where she worked actively as a professional truck driver.

This tragic and unresolved case has haunted not only her family but the entire trucking community. For years, leads went cold. But now, the case is receiving fresh attention.

Texas Crime Stoppers and the Gregg County Sheriff’s Office are asking for the public’s help. Anyone with information can call 1-800-252-TIPS (8477) or submit an anonymous tip online. To be eligible for the reward, tips must be submitted with the phrases “Cold Cases Featured” and “Cold Case” selected as the crime type.

As an industry, we owe it to our drivers—especially those most vulnerable—to stand united in demanding justice. Trucking is more than just a job. It’s a way of life, and our road warriors deserve to know their lives matter, both behind the wheel and beyond it.

If you know something, say something. Let’s bring justice to Lillian and her loved ones.

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Safety Lane stands with all drivers affected by violence on the road. We will continue to amplify these cases until no trucker is left behind. Stay informed. Stay compliant. Stay ahead. Safety Lane Magazine & CellEx Consulting Group – Your Trusted Source for Industry Compliance & Safety