A devastating two-vehicle crash on State Highway 155 near Flint, Texas, claimed the lives of five people, including a 4-year-old child, on Thursday morning, July 9, 2026.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the crash happened around 8 a.m. on State Highway 155 near Farm-to-Market Road 344. A preliminary investigation found that a Toyota Highlander traveling southbound crossed into the northbound lane and collided head-on with a Cadillac SUV traveling in the opposite direction.
The driver of the Highlander, Jonathan Ryal, 51, of Tyler, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Cadillac, Rhanda Lacy, 60, of Crockett, also died at the scene, along with passengers Leshonda Shepherd, 41, of Crockett, and Cynthia Donnell, 63, of Palestine.
A 4-year-old child who was traveling in the Cadillac was transported to a Dallas hospital for treatment but later died from injuries sustained in the crash.
During the investigation, DPS determined that none of the occupants in either vehicle were wearing seat belts at the time of the collision. Authorities also said the child was not properly secured in a child safety seat.
The crash remains under investigation as officials continue working to determine the circumstances that led to the deadly collision.
Family, friends, and communities across East Texas are mourning the tragic loss of all five victims, remembering their lives and the impact they had on those who knew and loved them.
