KILGORE, TX — Heartbreak has struck the Kilgore community after a catastrophic head-on crash on State Highway 31 Monday morning claimed the lives of four local residents. Emergency responders arriving at the scene west of FM 2767 discovered that all four adults had died at the scene, highlighting the severity of the collision.
Authorities have now identified the victims of the tragic crash as Alejandro Julian Martinez, 19; Jonathan Josue Perez, 20; David Morales Ramos, 21; and Nicholas Colby Sanders, 40. All four were residents of Kilgore, Smith County Pct. 4 Justice of the Peace Curtis Wulf confirmed.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the collision occurred when Vehicle 1, traveling eastbound on State Highway 31, crossed into the wrong lane and collided nearly head-on with Vehicle 2. Vehicle 1 carried three young men—Martinez, Perez, and Ramos—while Sanders was driving Vehicle 2 alone. First responders pronounced all four adults deceased at the scene. The crash caused significant traffic disruption, with eastbound drivers on Highway 31 diverted to County Road 245 North as crews worked to clear the wreckage.
The news has shaken the tight-knit Kilgore community. A spokesperson from Kilgore Independent School District confirmed that while the victims were not students or staff, several had family connections to local families. Counselors have been made available to support students, staff, and community members coping with the loss. “This is a devastating loss for Kilgore,” said the ISD spokesperson. “Our hearts go out to the families and friends of those affected, and we are here to provide support to everyone impacted by this tragedy.”
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. While initial reports suggest Vehicle 1 crossed into the wrong lane, DPS officials are examining other factors, including road conditions, vehicle speed, and possible impairment. No citations or charges have been announced, and investigators are urging anyone with information or dashcam footage to come forward.
The deaths of Alejandro Martinez, Jonathan Perez, David Ramos, and Nicholas Sanders have left a profound mark on Kilgore. Friends, neighbors, and family members are mourning their loss, honoring their memories through vigils and messages of support. This tragedy serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers on the road and the importance of safe driving practices.
As the community comes together in grief, the families of the victims and the residents of Kilgore are leaning on one another for strength during this painful time.
Reported by NewsPulse Reporter | NewsPulse Media