Pearsall Crash Kills Former Students James Chavera and Gabriel Carrizales; Fundraiser Supports Family

 PEARSALL, TX — A devastating traffic collision in South Texas has claimed the lives of two former Pearsall High School students, leaving the community in mourning and sparking a fundraiser to support grieving families.

The crash occurred on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the intersection of North Oak Street and East Trinity Street in Pearsall. According to the Pearsall Police Department, the collision involved a white Ford truck with one occupant and a gray Scion sedan carrying three people.

📍 Incident Details

• Victims: James Matthew Mata Chavera and Gabriel Carrizales, both former Pearsall High School students

• Location: Intersection of North Oak Street and East Trinity Street, Pearsall

• Vehicles: White Ford truck (1 occupant) and gray Scion sedan (3 occupants)

• Fatalities: Chavera and Carrizales pronounced dead at Frio Regional Hospital

• Injuries: Scion driver airlifted to a San Antonio hospital in serious condition

• Ford truck driver: Uninjured, remained at the scene and cleared by EMS

Police confirmed that the two passengers in the Scion — Chavera and Carrizales — did not survive their injuries. The driver of the Scion remains hospitalized in serious condition, while the Ford truck driver was evaluated and released.

🏫 School Statement

Pearsall High School issued a heartfelt statement following the tragedy:

“Our hearts are heavy as we mourn the loss of former students. This tragedy has deeply impacted our small community, and we extend our deepest condolences and prayers to all families and loved ones affected during this difficult time.”

The school community has been shaken, with teachers, classmates, and alumni expressing grief and sharing memories of the two young men.

💐 Community Fundraiser

In response, the close‑knit South Texas community has rallied to support the family of James Matthew Mata Chavera through a Give A Hand fundraiser. The campaign aims to help cover funeral expenses and provide financial relief amid the sudden loss.

Donations have poured in, reflecting the profound sorrow felt locally and the strong bonds within Pearsall.

🔎 Investigation Ongoing

The Pearsall Police Department continues to investigate the cause of the crash. No further details have been released regarding contributing factors or possible charges.

Authorities confirmed that the Ford truck driver remained at the scene and cooperated with investigators. As of Sunday evening, no update was available on the condition of the Scion’s driver.

💔 Community Impact

The deaths of Chavera and Carrizales have left Pearsall grieving deeply. Vigils and memorials are expected in the coming days, as friends and family gather to honor their lives.

This story is shared for awareness purposes, based on information provided by local law enforcement, school officials, and community organizers.

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