Gatesville, Texas: Waco Man Identified Following Devastating Head-On Collision on Highway 84 Thursday Night
GATESVILLE, TX — A tragic head-on collision that occurred just outside Gatesville has claimed the life of a 21-year-old man, now identified by authorities as Jeffrey Lynn Nevarez Jr., a resident of Waco. The incident happened on Thursday night and has since left both communities shaken and searching for answers.
According to Sgt. Bryan Washko of the Texas Department of Public Safety, the collision took place around 9:39 p.m. on U.S. Highway 84, roughly five miles east of the Gatesville city limits. The crash involved two vehicles: a 2021 Kia Stinger and a 2024 Dodge Ram truck pulling a livestock trailer.
Nevarez was reportedly driving eastbound in the Kia when, for reasons that are still under investigation, his vehicle drifted into the oncoming westbound lane. Authorities confirmed that the Kia collided head-on with the Dodge Ram, which was towing livestock at the time of the crash.
The impact of the collision caused significant damage to both vehicles. Emergency responders were quickly dispatched to the scene. Despite their efforts, Nevarez succumbed to his injuries at the crash site. The driver of the Dodge Ram sustained injuries, but their condition has not yet been publicly disclosed.
Officials have not yet determined what caused Nevarez’s vehicle to cross into the opposite lane. Investigators are considering various factors, including road conditions, vehicle malfunction, and the possibility of driver fatigue or distraction. Toxicology results are also pending and may provide further clarity.
The livestock trailer was carrying animals at the time of the collision. Authorities have confirmed that no animals were seriously injured during the incident, though the trailer sustained moderate damage. The truck driver was able to maintain control following the impact and brought the vehicle to a stop off the highway.
As the investigation continues, traffic along U.S. Highway 84 was temporarily diverted to allow for cleanup and forensic analysis. The road has since been reopened. Officials urge drivers to remain alert and cautious, particularly during nighttime hours, when visibility and fatigue can become major hazards.
Family members and friends of Nevarez have begun to mourn his loss, describing him as a young man with a promising future ahead. Community members from both Waco and Gatesville have shared their condolences and are expected to hold a memorial in his honor later this week.
The Department of Public Safety continues to investigate the incident, and anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact authorities. Meanwhile, this tragic accident serves as a solemn reminder of the unpredictable dangers present on rural highways, even during routine drives.
Leave a Reply