Loved ones remember Valley truck driver killed in Texas crash as hero

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- A Central Valley family is mourning the loss of a truck driver who was killed in a fiery crash in Texas while returning home to California.

Relatives of Byran Dixon said he was driving back to California when a tire on his truck blew out. Dixon applied the brakes, which then caught fire.

He managed to steer the truck across the highway to avoid other vehicles, but it struck an overpass and burst into flames.

Dixon's family believes his actions helped prevent injuries or deaths.

"When they told me that he was pretty much trying to save the few cars that were ahead of him by not running into them, you know I feel like he saved some lives on his way out," said La Shawn Jaso, Dixon's sister. "It was bittersweet for me because he was still thinking of others as his life was flashing in front of him."

Family members described Dixon as devoted, loyal and loving, with a passion for driving big rigs and motorcycles.

They are now raising funds to bring Dixon back home.

The family said cremation services must be completed in Texas before his remains can be returned home for a local memorial.

Those who wish to help can donate to the family's GoFundMe.