A tragic incident unfolded on Tuesday evening, May 28, 2024, as a family of five from Eagle Pass, Texas was killed in a vehicular accident on U.S. Highway 57, roughly nine miles east of their hometown.
The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) reports indicate that the family was heading west in their 2022 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV when an eastbound 2019 Ford FedEx box truck swerved into their lane triggering a disastrous head-on collision. Joanna Martinez, 34, the driver of the SUV, lost her life along with her passengers, Samantha Martinez, 25, Noemi Jimenez Martinez, 61, and Jose Martinez, 71. A ten-year-old girl, whose identity remains undisclosed, also lost her life en route to Fort Duncan Medical Center.
A representative for FedEx expressed deep condolences to the bereaved family and friends, stating, “Our hearts go out to everyone affected by this accident, and we offer our sincerest condolences to the families and friends grieving their loved ones.” They further assured that safety remains FedEx’s topmost concern and pledged complete cooperation with authorities during the ongoing investigation.
The FedEx truck driver sustained injuries from the collision and was promptly transported to the hospital for treatment. However, the details regarding the severity of his injuries remain undisclosed.
The Texas DPS troopers are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident. Preliminary findings suggest the FedEx truck’s failure to maintain its lane was the main cause of the collision. The investigation team is also examining other potential contributing factors such as driver impairment, distraction, or vehicular malfunction.
A friend of the family described the victims as a tightly-knit unit. “They were always together and supporting each other,” they said, expressing disbelief at the sudden loss.
Eagle Pass, Texas is grappling with this immense loss as locals express their shock and sorrow, acknowledging the significant impact on their community.
Reflecting on the incident, Texas Highway Patrol Staff Sergeant Rene Cordova emphasized the necessity of adhering to road safety practices. He stated, “Accidents like this highlight the importance of safe driving practices. We must all do our part to ensure the safety of ourselves and others on the road.”
A series of fundraisers and memorials are currently being planned to commemorate the lives lost and assist with the associated funeral costs.
