Four Young Adults Killed in Hardin County Crash; DPS Releases Victims’ Names Following Tragic FM 92 Collision
HARDIN COUNTY, TX — A quiet East Texas community is in mourning following a tragic accident that claimed four lives late Friday night, July 25, 2025. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has officially released the names of the victims involved in the devastating crash, which occurred on Farm-to-Market Road 92, just north of Jim Burns Road in Hardin County.
According to DPS investigators, the crash occurred shortly before 11:00 p.m., when a northbound 2019 Dodge Charger, carrying four occupants, veered into oncoming traffic and collided head-on with a southbound 2022 Ford F-150 pickup truck. The impact was described as “catastrophic,” with both vehicles sustaining severe front-end damage.
Despite immediate response efforts by local emergency crews and state troopers, all four occupants of the Dodge Charger were pronounced dead at the scene.
Victims Identified
The four deceased individuals have been identified as:
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Christopher Ray Dominguez, 24, of Silsbee
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Haley Annette McGraw, 23, of Lumberton
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Jacob Lee Carter, 26, of Kountze
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Vanessa Hope Ruiz, 22, of Beaumont
Authorities confirmed that all four were wearing seatbelts, though the force of the collision was too powerful to survive. The driver of the Ford F-150, a 58-year-old man from Warren, Texas, was seriously injured and airlifted to a nearby trauma center in stable but critical condition. His name has not yet been released, pending family notification.
DPS Investigation Underway
The Texas DPS has launched a full investigation into the cause of the collision, though early indicators suggest speed and potential impairment may have been contributing factors. A toxicology report is pending for both drivers.
Sgt. Shana Clark, spokesperson for DPS, offered a brief statement:
“This is a heartbreaking and tragic loss of life. Our hearts go out to the families and friends of those who died. We are committed to thoroughly investigating this incident and urge all drivers to exercise caution, especially at night and on rural roads.”
Community in Mourning
The impact of the crash has sent shockwaves through multiple towns in Hardin County, where the victims were well-known. Friends and family have taken to social media to express their grief and disbelief, remembering the four young adults as kind, adventurous, and full of promise.
Lumberton resident Jennifer McGraw, Haley’s older sister, wrote in a public Facebook post:
“My baby sister had the biggest heart. She could light up a room with her smile. I can’t believe she’s gone. Please hug your loved ones tight.”
A memorial vigil is being organized by friends of the victims, scheduled for Sunday evening at Silsbee High School football field, where candles will be lit and stories shared in their honor.
Ongoing Safety Concerns on FM 92
This latest incident has also revived calls for increased safety measures on FM 92, a stretch of road that locals say has seen multiple fatal crashes in recent years. Concerns have long been raised about poor lighting, limited shoulder space, and sharp curves that can be dangerous—especially late at night or in inclement weather.
Hardin County Commissioner Billy Anders acknowledged the issue:
“We’ve lost too many lives on this road. It’s time for serious action. Whether it’s more lighting, signage, or barriers, something needs to change.”
A Painful Reminder
For now, four families are left with shattered hearts and a lifetime of grief. Plans for funerals and memorials are already underway, as the community comes together to support those left behind.
As the DPS investigation continues, loved ones are left to mourn lives taken far too soon and to grapple with the senselessness of the tragedy.
Anyone with additional information about the crash is urged to contact the Texas DPS Office in Beaumont.