A tragic collision Friday evening between Buna and Evadale, in the southern part of Jasper County, has left two people dead — one of whom was a young child — and another critically injured, authorities confirmed.
According to Sergeant Shana Clark with the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the preliminary investigation revealed that the fatal crash occurred at approximately 8:15 p.m. A 2023 Hyundai Elantra was traveling north when, for reasons still under investigation, the driver crossed the center median and began traveling north in the southbound lanes. Moments later, the Hyundai collided head-on with a 2024 Kia Sportage, driven by 29-year-old Anais Peralta of Marshall, Texas.
The violent impact resulted in immediate fatalities. The driver of the Hyundai and an 8-year-old child who was a passenger in the Kia were both pronounced dead at the scene by a Jasper County Justice of the Peace. Their identities have not yet been released pending notification of their next of kin.
Anais Peralta, the driver of the Kia, sustained life-threatening injuries and was quickly transported to a nearby hospital for emergency treatment. Her condition remains critical.
The crash sent shockwaves through the tight-knit communities of Buna and Evadale, as news spread about the young life lost and the family forever changed by the accident. Many residents have taken to social media to express their heartbreak and offer prayers for the victims’ families.
Texas State Troopers are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Investigators are working to determine what may have caused the Hyundai’s driver to veer across the median into oncoming traffic. Toxicology tests, standard procedure in fatal collisions, have been ordered, and further details are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
In the meantime, the stretch of highway between Buna and Evadale serves as a somber reminder of how quickly lives can be shattered. Local officials are urging all drivers to exercise extreme caution on the roadways, especially during evening hours when visibility is lower.
“Our thoughts are with the families affected by this terrible tragedy,” Sergeant Clark said. “We ask for the public’s patience as we complete a thorough investigation into the cause of this heartbreaking accident.”
Funeral arrangements for the victims will be announced by their families in the coming days. Community members have already begun discussing ways to support the grieving families, including possible vigils and fundraisers.