In Loving Memory of Trevor Julian: Tragic Road-Rage Incident in Tyler, Texas
TYLER, Texas (KLTV) — A night that began as an ordinary Friday turned tragic on Grande Boulevard, leaving a family and community in mourning. Trevor Julian, 29, of Whitehouse, passed away following a road-rage incident that escalated into deadly violence. The suspect, Dayton Alexander Morgan, 23, of Ben Wheeler, was arrested and charged with first-degree murder, according to Tyler Police Department.
Trevor Julian, a graduate of Carthage High School and a former U.S. Marine, was remembered by friends and family as a devoted son, loyal friend, and proud veteran. His service in the Marines instilled in him discipline, courage, and a deep sense of community—qualities that those who knew him say defined his life. A 2017 Marines photo of Julian captures the youthful determination and pride that he carried throughout his life.
According to Tyler Police spokesman Andy Erbaugh, the events unfolded Friday night near the intersection of Grande Boulevard and Paluxy Drive. Julian, driving a white Tesla, exited his vehicle and approached the driver’s side of a white Ram pickup truck. The truck was operated by Dayton Morgan. During the confrontation, Morgan fired a gun through the pickup’s window, striking Julian in the neck. Emergency responders rushed Julian to a Tyler hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.
Authorities confirmed that Morgan remained at the scene and was detained by police. Erbaugh stated that, based on initial evidence, Julian was unarmed during the confrontation. The incident has raised concerns about escalating road-rage encounters and the consequences of impulsive violence.
Morgan now faces serious legal consequences as he is formally charged with first-degree murder. Tyler police continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, interviewing witnesses and reviewing any available surveillance footage to reconstruct the moments leading up to the tragedy. Law enforcement officials urge anyone with additional information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.
The loss of Julian has reverberated throughout the Whitehouse and Tyler communities. Neighbors and friends have expressed grief and shock over the senseless nature of the violence. Many describe Julian as a kind and courageous individual whose dedication to his country and community left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. Memorials and tributes have begun appearing, honoring his memory and celebrating his life and service.
This tragic event serves as a sobering reminder of how quickly a moment of anger on the road can escalate into irreversible consequences. As the community comes together to mourn, Tyler police emphasize the importance of remaining calm in potentially volatile situations and seeking non-violent resolutions whenever possible.
Trevor Julian is survived by his family, friends, and the broader community of fellow veterans and residents who remember him for his bravery, character, and the light he brought into the lives of those around him. Plans for a public memorial and tribute are expected in the coming days, giving family, friends, and the community an opportunity to honor his life and legacy.
As Tyler and surrounding areas grapple with the aftermath of this tragic road-rage incident, the memory of Trevor Julian—Marine, friend, and community member—remains a poignant reminder of the preciousness of life and the importance of choosing patience, understanding, and compassion in moments of conflict.

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