Cynthia Chavez Hernandez, Pharr, Car Accident – Authorities in Gaines County are investigating a devastating early-morning collision that left one woman dead and sent two other people to area hospitals on Thursday. The incident unfolded shortly before sunrise, adding a somber tone to what began as an ordinary morning for the drivers involved.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, troopers were dispatched at approximately 5:45 a.m. to the scene of a two-vehicle crash at the crossroads of County Road 219 and County Road 212. When emergency crews arrived, they found two heavily damaged pickup trucks that had flipped over as a result of the impact.
Preliminary findings from DPS describe how the events leading to the accident began. A Ram truck, driven by 40-year-old Daniel Gonzales Jr. of Seminole, was heading west along CR 212 as it approached the intersection. At the same time, a GMC Sierra was moving north on CR 219. Officials reported that Gonzales failed to stop at the posted sign and proceeded into the intersection. This violation caused the Ram to collide forcefully with the GMC Sierra, triggering a rollover for both vehicles.
The impact of the crash proved fatal for one of the passengers. Inside the GMC Sierra was 32-year-old Cynthia Chavez Hernandez of Pharr. Despite the efforts of first responders, she was pronounced deceased at the scene due to injuries sustained in the collision. Her death has deeply affected her family and community, as she had been traveling with a loved one at the time of the crash.
The driver of the GMC Sierra, identified as 31-year-old Irving Alejandro Hernandez Presas, also from Pharr, was critically hurt in the wreck. Emergency medical personnel worked quickly to stabilize him before arranging transport to University Medical Center in Lubbock. He reportedly suffered significant injuries and is receiving extensive medical care as doctors work to improve his condition. The seriousness of his injuries has not yet been updated publicly.
Gonzales, the driver of the Ram, was also injured in the collision. After being evaluated on-site by medics, he was transported to Seminole Hospital with severe injuries. Authorities have not released additional details about his current condition or whether any charges might follow as the investigation continues. DPS typically conducts a thorough review in such cases, examining factors such as speed, visibility conditions, driver impairment, and roadway design to determine the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
The intersection where the crash happened is known to be rural, with limited traffic during the early morning hours. However, like many county road crossings, clear visibility and adherence to traffic signs are essential for safe travel. Investigators will likely assess the stop sign placement, sightlines, and any possible obstructions that could have contributed to the driver failing to yield.
News of the fatal crash has shaken residents of both Seminole and Pharr, especially given the loss of a young woman and the serious injuries sustained by the others. Community members often feel the effects of such incidents deeply, as rural counties typically have closely connected populations. As word spreads, many are offering condolences to the Hernandez family while hoping for the recovery of those still hospitalized.
DPS will release more information once the investigation reaches further conclusions. For now, the crash serves as another reminder of how quickly a moment of inattention or failure to follow roadway rules can result in life-altering consequences. Authorities continue to encourage drivers to exercise caution, especially during early morning hours when visibility and alertness may be reduced.
