Authorities in Gaines County are investigating a deadly early-morning crash that claimed the life of a 32-year-old woman and left two men seriously injured on Thursday. The tragic collision occurred shortly before sunrise, turning an otherwise routine morning into a devastating scene that has shaken families and community members across the region.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the crash unfolded around 5:45 a.m. at the rural intersection of County Road 219 and County Road 212. When first responders arrived, they discovered two pickup trucks—the Ram and GMC Sierra—overturned and heavily damaged, evidence of the violent impact that occurred in the dim morning light. Troopers immediately began providing aid, but it was quickly clear that one of the passengers had suffered fatal injuries.
Preliminary findings indicate that the crash began when a Ram truck driven by 40-year-old Daniel Gonzales Jr. of Seminole was heading west on CR 212. As Gonzales approached the intersection, he failed to stop at a posted stop sign and continued through the crossing. At the same time, a GMC Sierra traveling north on CR 219, driven by 31-year-old Irving Alejandro Hernandez Presas of Pharr, entered the intersection. Gonzales’ failure to yield caused the Ram to strike the GMC Sierra with significant force, sending both vehicles rolling over.
Inside the GMC Sierra was 32-year-old passenger Cynthia Chavez Hernandez, also of Pharr. Despite the rapid response of EMS and troopers, she was pronounced dead at the scene from injuries sustained in the rollover. Her passing has deeply impacted loved ones and community members, who describe the loss as sudden, heartbreaking, and profoundly unfair. Hernandez Presas, the driver of the GMC, suffered critical injuries and was rushed to University Medical Center in Lubbock, where he is receiving intensive medical care.
Gonzales also sustained serious injuries and was transported to Seminole Hospital for treatment. DPS officials have not yet released updates on his condition, nor have they confirmed whether charges may be considered as investigators continue examining the circumstances of the crash. As in all fatal collisions, troopers will review factors such as speed, visibility, roadway layout, and potential driver impairment to determine exactly what led to the deadly impact.
The rural intersection where the crash occurred is known for limited visibility during early hours, making adherence to traffic signage essential. As the investigation continues, authorities are reminding drivers to remain vigilant, especially during pre-dawn travel. The Gaines County community, meanwhile, is mourning the loss of Cynthia Chavez Hernandez and hoping for the recovery of the two men still hospitalized. Further updates will be released as DPS completes its review of the case.
