The community of Alamo, Texas is deeply mourning the tragic loss of 20-year-old Thomas Gomez, whose life was cut short in a devastating two-vehicle collision on Sunday, November 23. According to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), the fatal crash occurred shortly after 11:20 a.m. along the southbound lanes of U.S. Highway 281 near Ben Bolt.
Officials reported that Thomas had been traveling behind a semi-truck on the busy highway when he attempted to change lanes. At the same time, a 2023 Kenworth truck tractor pulling a utility trailer—driven by 63-year-old Xavier Gonzalez of Edinburg—was also traveling southbound. As Thomas, driving a 2014 Chevrolet Impala, began his lane-change maneuver, the front right side of his vehicle made contact with the back left portion of the trailer.
The impact forced Thomas’s vehicle off the roadway, where it came to rest away from traffic. The semi-truck continued forward and eventually stopped on the shoulder. Emergency responders arrived within minutes, but despite their urgent efforts, Thomas sustained severe, life-ending injuries. He was pronounced deceased at the scene by Jim Wells County Justice of the Peace Noe Cadena. Authorities confirmed that Thomas was the only occupant of his vehicle.
As of the latest information, DPS has not released details regarding the condition of the truck driver. The crash remains under active investigation as officials continue reviewing roadway conditions, vehicle positions, witness accounts, and any contributing factors that may have played a role in the collision.
Traffic along Highway 281 was slowed for an extended period as troopers and first responders worked to secure the area, collect evidence, and ensure the highway could reopen safely.
Now, Alamo—and all who knew Thomas—are left grieving a sudden and heartbreaking loss. At only 20 years old, Thomas was a young man full of promise, hope, and dreams for the future. His unexpected passing has left a profound void in the hearts of his family, friends, and community members who loved him dearly.
Thomas is remembered for the life he lived, not the tragedy that took him. His warmth, kindness, and the light he carried will forever be held close by those who shared their lives with him.
May those mourning his passing find strength and comfort through one another. And may Thomas Gomez rest in peaceful, eternal remembrance—gone far too soon, but forever loved and never forgotten.
