ALBA, Texas (KETK) – Two teenagers were killed in a two-car wreck Thursday night on US 69 in the Alba area. A total of three teens lost their lives in crashes in East Texas this week.
Officials with DPS said a 2005 Chrysler Town and Country was traveling north on US 69 when it crossed the double yellow stripe line and struck a 2017 Land Rover, fatally killing both drivers.
Both the driver of the Chrysler, a 16-year-old boy of Alba, and the driver of the Land Rover Ginger Durham, 18 of Mineola, were pronounced dead on the scene.
Durham’s passenger was airlifted to a Tyler hospital where she is reported to be in stable condition.
“This morning we learned about the passing of one of our students, Asa Davis, who passed away in a car accident last night. Asa was a junior at Alba-Golden High School and a light on our campus. He was a gifted actor and a part of our school’s award-winning One Act Play last spring. Asa was very kind and joyful, often making those around him laugh. He was a leader and someone who made others feel special,” said Alba-Golden Superintendent Macie Thompson.
The district also asked for prayers for their community.
Police are still trying to figure out what happened.
“Younger drivers are usually pretty careful, but they are easily distracted. I want to encourage those parents to sit down with their teenagers. They are new drivers, young drivers, and they are excited about getting on the road with their vehicle. But, talk to them,” said Rhonda Oaks, with the Texas Department of Transportation.
Officials say people should buckle up, stay alert and slow down to avoid awful tragedies on roadways.