Five people were killed after a Jeep Grand Cherokee and Toyota Tundra collided Saturday morning at the intersection of the US 77 access road and SH 89.
SAN PATRICIO COUNTY, Texas — A Saturday morning crash in San Patricio County claimed the lives of five people after a Jeep Grand Cherokee and a Toyota Tundra collided at the intersection of the US 77 access road and State Highway 89.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the crash happened around 8:30a.m. Saturday, July 18. Texas highway Patrol troopers responded to the scene and launched an investigation into the deadly collision.
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Preliminary findings indicate a 2025 Jeep Grand Cherokee was traveling southbound on the US 77 access road when it failed to yield the right of way at a stop sign. Authorities say the SUV was then struck on its passenger side by a 2011 Toyota Tundra that was traveling south on State Highway 89.
The driver of the Toyota, a 46-year-old man from San Antonio, and his two sons, ages 15 and 11, were not seriously injured. All three were transported to Northwest Emergency Room as a precaution, according to DPS.
The driver of the Jeep, identified as 37-year-old Samantha Cruz of Corpus Christi, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Three passengers in the Jeep — 63-year-old Sara Cruz, 64-year-old Sonia Montes and 61-year-old Sallie Montes — were also pronounced dead at the scene by Justice of the Peace Precinct 8 Judge Leslie Pullin.
A fifth occupant of the Jeep, identified as 68-year-old Ruben Cruz, was flown by HALO-Flight to CHRISTUS Spohn Shoreline. Authorities said he later died from his injuries at the hospital.
The intersection remained an active investigation Saturday as Texas Highway Patrol troopers from the Sinton office worked to determine the full circumstances surrounding the crash.
No additional information has been released, and the investigation remains ongoing.