Authorities in Texas are investigating a tragic two-vehicle collision that claimed the life of a young Alamo man early Sunday afternoon. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the deadly crash occurred shortly after 11:20 a.m. on November 23 along the southbound lanes of U.S. Highway 281 near Ben Bolt. The victim, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Gomez, died at the scene, leaving family, friends, and his community heartbroken.
DPS officials reported that Gomez had been traveling behind a semi-truck as traffic moved steadily through the area late Sunday morning. Preliminary findings indicate that Gomez attempted to change lanes while driving his 2014 Chevrolet Impala. At the same time, the commercial vehicle ahead—a 2023 Kenworth truck tractor pulling a utility trailer—was being driven by 63-year-old Xavier Gonzalez of Edinburg. Both vehicles were headed southbound when the collision occurred, with investigators noting that the maneuver placed the Impala dangerously close to the trailer.
During the attempted lane change, the front right side of Gomez’s car made contact with the rear left portion of the truck’s trailer. The impact forced the Impala off the roadway, where it came to rest away from passing traffic. The semi-truck continued forward before coming to a controlled stop along the highway shoulder. Emergency responders and law enforcement rushed to the scene, but Gomez had suffered severe injuries and could not be revived. Jim Wells County Justice of the Peace Noe Cadena later pronounced him deceased. He was the sole occupant of his vehicle.
As of the latest update, DPS has not released details regarding the condition of the truck driver, and it remains unclear whether Gonzalez sustained any injuries. Investigators continue to examine roadway evidence, review vehicle damage, and analyze factors that may have contributed to the crash. Officials emphasized that all fatal collisions require a thorough and methodical review before an official determination can be made.
U.S. Highway 281 is a major throughway for both commercial and passenger traffic, and drivers in the area experienced delays Sunday as responders worked to secure the crash site. DPS troopers, fire crews, and other first responders coordinated efforts to protect passing motorists and ensure the roadway was safely reopened. Authorities expressed condolences to Gomez’s family, noting the profound loss of a young life with a promising future.
The investigation remains active, and DPS is urging anyone who may have witnessed the crash or has additional information to contact their office. Officials also reminded drivers to exercise caution when navigating around large trucks, particularly during lane changes where visibility and timing are critical.
