A two-vehicle crash in Nueces County killed a 35-year-old man and two of his children, highlighting the consequences of roadway violations and the need for intersection safety.
The
Texas Department of Public Safety said the crash happened around 9:44 p.m. on January 15 at the crossing of County Road 77 and County Road 36. Emergency workers got there quickly, but the crash caused serious injuries and deaths.
How the Crash Happened
Investigators said a 2019 Ford Ranger was going west on County Road 36 toward the intersection. At the same time, a 2005 Buick Rendezvous was going south on County Road 77. Randy Rubio drove the Buick with his three children, ages 4, 5, and 12, riding with him.
Police said the Ford Ranger did not stop at a stop sign. It hit the Buick hard on the driver’s side. Both cars left the road, and the people inside were badly hurt.
Victims and Emergency Response
Paramedics pronounced Rubio dead at the scene. His three children suffered serious injuries, and emergency crews transported them to hospitals. Medical teams took two children directly to Driscoll Children’s Hospital, while they first brought the third child to Christus Spohn Shoreline before transferring the child to Driscoll for further care.
Despite intensive treatment, doctors pronounced Rubio’s 4-year-old child dead on January 15. The family later lost the 12-year-old child, who died from injuries on January 18, days after the crash. As of the latest update, the 5-year-old child remained hospitalized.
A helicopter airlifted the driver of the Ford Ranger to Christus Spohn Shoreline. Officials reported that the driver remained in critical condition as of January 16, and authorities have not released the driver’s name.
Investigation Still Ongoing
The Department of Public Safety said the investigation is ongoing. When asked whether the Ford Ranger’s driver would face charges, officials said they had made no decision as of January 17. Investigators are still reviewing evidence, including witness statements and items found at the scene, to determine what happened.
Community Impact and Safety Reminder
This tragic event has deeply upset the local community, especially because it involved young children. Traffic safety groups say stop signs and intersection rules help prevent tragedies like this. Not following traffic rules can have terrible effects, especially on country roads where it can be hard to see, and cars go fast.
Police ask drivers to pay attention, slow down at intersections, and always follow traffic laws. Even a quick mistake or bad choice can cost lives.
While the investigation continues, officials are asking the public to be patient and to respect the family’s privacy. Officials will share more updates as they become available.
