A tragic ATV accident occurred Saturday night near Santa Maria, resulting in the death of 29-year-old Justin Gutierrez of Harlingen and leaving a passenger critically injured.
The Texas Department of Public Safety reported that Gutierrez was driving the ATV when it became airborne and crashed into the ground after launching over a canal. The incident happened in a rural area of Santa Maria, at the intersection of Bowers Road and FM 2556.
Gutierrez sustained significant trauma and was later pronounced dead at Valley Baptist Medical Center. The passenger, whose identity has not been released, remains hospitalized with critical injuries.
Authorities noted that neither Gutierrez nor his passenger were wearing helmets at the time of the crash, highlighting the importance of safety measures when operating ATVs.
The Texas Department of Public Safety is investigating the crash, with speed and lack of safety equipment potentially contributing to the severity of the accident. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers associated with ATV riding, particularly in rural areas with unpredictable terrain.
