Waco, TX – A fatal crash on December 7, claimed the lives of a woman and her 3-month-old infant, and left three young children hospitalized with injuries. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is investigating the circumstances surrounding the single-vehicle wreck that occurred around 9:40 p.m. on U.S. Highway 190, just west of the town of Kempner.
According to authorities, 28-year-old Destiny Ramirez, of Huntsville, was driving a 2004 Chevrolet Trailblazer eastbound when she approached a curve in the road. DPS officials said Ramirez was traveling at an unsafe speed in wet conditions, which led her to lose control of the vehicle.
As the vehicle skidded, it crossed into the westbound lane before striking a guard rail. Both Ramirez and her infant, who were not wearing seatbelts, were ejected from the vehicle. They were pronounced dead at the scene by responding emergency personnel.
In addition to the two fatalities, three children—aged 2, 5, and 7—were also in the vehicle at the time of the crash. Like the adults, the children were not restrained and were thrown from the vehicle. They were rushed to a nearby hospital with unspecified injuries, though authorities say their conditions are stable.
DPS investigators are continuing to examine the cause of the crash, and have confirmed that next of kin have been notified.
The incident has raised concerns over the importance of vehicle safety, particularly the need for proper restraints, especially for young children. Texas law mandates that all children under 8 years of age must be properly secured in a child safety seat or booster seat, and officers are urging drivers to take extra care when traveling in adverse weather conditions.
The investigation into the crash is ongoing, and DPS officials are asking anyone with information related to the incident to come forward.
This devastating crash highlights the potential dangers of driving in inclement weather and serves as a reminder of the critical importance of vehicle safety. As authorities continue their investigation, the community is left mourning the loss of a young mother and her child.
