A quiet Sunday afternoon turned tragic for the southbound lanes of U.S. Highway 281 near Ben Bolt when 20‑year‑old Thomas Gomez of Alamo was killed in a two‑vehicle collision, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS). The crash occurred shortly after 11:20 a.m. on November 23 — a young man’s life ended in an instant as he attempted a lane change behind a tractor‑trailer.
Gomez was driving a 2014 Chevrolet Impala when he attempted to move out of the lane behind a 2023 Kenworth truck tractor pulling a utility trailer, driven by 63‑year‑old Xavier Gonzalez of Edinburg. Both vehicles were headed southbound on the major corridor when the contact occurred. According to investigators, as Gomez began his lane‑change manoeuver, the front right side of his Impala struck the back left section of the trailer being towed by the semi‑truck. The impact forced the Impala off the highway where it came to rest away from the main roadway. Meanwhile the truck continued and ultimately parked on the shoulder.
First responders and DPS troopers arrived swiftly. Despite their efforts, Gomez’s injuries were too severe and he was pronounced deceased at the scene by Justice of the Peace Noe Cadena of Jim Wells County. He was the only occupant of his vehicle. At this stage, authorities have not disclosed whether Gonzalez sustained any injuries, leaving that detail unclear.
The investigation is ongoing. DPS officials say they are examining all relevant factors: the roadway conditions, the positioning of both vehicles, how the lane change was executed, and whether any mechanical or human factors didn’t align. While no wrongdoing has been alleged yet, all fatal collisions warrant a thorough review before any conclusions can be drawn.
Highway 281 is a vital freight and commuter route in the region, and the stretch near Ben Bolt is especially active with both commercial and passenger vehicles. After the crash, motorists experienced delays as the scene was cleared and officials ensured the roadway could safely reopen. Troopers and local first‑responders worked to protect passing drivers while gathering initial evidence.
The sorrowful loss of such a young life resonated across the community. DPS extended condolences to Gomez’s family and used this tragic moment as a reminder of how critical driver awareness is — especially when navigating near large commercial vehicles or making lane changes. They emphasised that maintaining safe distance, staying attentive, and giving extra room can significantly reduce the risk of catastrophic results.
No additional facts have been released for now, and investigators have asked anyone who witnessed the incident or has helpful information to contact the Texas DPS. As the review continues, the hope is to understand precisely how things unfolded — and how similar tragedies might be prevented in the future.
