Thomas Gomez Obituary, Death – Authorities in Texas are investigating a tragic two-vehicle collision that claimed the life of a young man early Sunday afternoon. According to information released by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the crash occurred along the southbound lanes of U.S. Highway 281 near Ben Bolt on November 23, shortly after 11:20 a.m. The victim has been identified as 20-year-old Thomas Gomez, a resident of Alamo.
Officials explained that the incident happened as traffic was moving through the area late Sunday morning. Preliminary findings show that Gomez had been traveling behind a semi-truck when he attempted to change lanes. At the same time, the commercial vehicle—identified as 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.
Investigators reported that Gomez was driving a 2014 Chevrolet Impala when he began to make a lane change. During the maneuver, the front right side of his vehicle made contact with the back left section of the trailer being hauled by the semi-truck. The impact forced the Impala off the road and caused it to come to rest away from the main roadway. The semi-truck continued forward and eventually stopped on the shoulder of the highway.
Emergency responders and law enforcement arrived at the scene moments later. Despite their efforts, Gomez sustained severe injuries in the collision and was unable to be revived. Jim Wells County Justice of the Peace Noe Cadena responded to the site and officially pronounced him deceased. Officials shared that he was the only occupant of his vehicle.
As of the latest update, DPS has not released further information regarding the condition of the truck driver. It remains unclear if Gonzalez suffered any injuries during the crash. Authorities emphasized that the investigation is still active as they work to determine the full circumstances that led to the collision. This includes reviewing roadway conditions, vehicle positions, and any factors that may have contributed to the lane-change impact.
Highway 281 is a major corridor in the region, and the area near Ben Bolt sees frequent commercial and passenger traffic. Following the accident, drivers in the vicinity experienced delays as officials worked to clear the crash site and conduct their preliminary assessment. DPS troopers and local first responders took measures to protect passing motorists and ensure the roadway was safely reopened.
While authorities have not suggested any wrongdoing at this stage, they noted that all fatal collisions require a thorough review. Investigators will continue gathering witness statements, checking for potential mechanical issues, and analyzing any evidence found at the scene. Once complete, their findings will be used to clarify the sequence of events and provide an official conclusion.
The loss of a young life has brought sorrow to the community, and officials expressed their condolences to Gomez’s family. They also encouraged drivers to remain cautious on major highways, especially during lane changes or while navigating near large commercial vehicles. DPS continues to remind motorists that maintaining awareness and allowing ample distance can significantly reduce the risk of collisions.
No additional details have been released, and authorities stated that updates will be provided when the investigation allows. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information that could assist in the review is encouraged to contact the Texas Department of Public Safety.
