HARDIN COUNTY, Texas — A devastating crash late Thursday night claimed the lives of two recently graduated best friends, Riley Ard of Buna and Tracyn Brady of Orangefield. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) is leading the investigation into the fatal collision, which occurred just north of Silsbee on FM 92 near FM 1122.
According to the preliminary DPS report, the crash happened around 11:30 p.m. when a Honda Accord, driven by Ard, pulled out from a gas station parking lot and failed to yield to a tow truck traveling northbound on FM 92. The Accord was struck on the driver’s side.
Riley Ard was pronounced dead at the scene. Tracyn Brady, who was in the passenger seat, was transported to CHRISTUS St. Elizabeth Hospital, where he later died from his injuries.
The two teens had just graduated in May and were described by family and friends as inseparable.
“Riley and Tracyn were best friends,” said Ashley Hall Brady, Tracyn’s mother. “They had left Riley’s home and gone to the store, and were heading back.”
Ashley shared heartfelt memories and photos of her son with local news outlets. She described Tracyn, one of her five sons, as “a wonderful son” — caring, respectful, and always willing to help others. After high school, Tracyn had joined the union and planned to work as a substation technician.
He attended Orangefield High School as a freshman before transferring to and graduating from Buna High School, where Riley was also a student.
Community Grieves Profound Loss
In response to the tragedy, Buna ISD released a public statement expressing condolences and offering emotional support services for students and staff.
“Our prayers and deepest sympathies go out to their families, friends, and all those who loved them,” the district stated on Facebook.
“We know that many of our students and staff may need emotional or counseling support, and we want to ensure that support is available.”
Counselors will be made available at Buna High School in the coming days to help students and staff cope with the loss.
The tragedy comes just one week after another fatal accident occurred on FM 92, involving a UTV and an 18-wheeler near Jim Burns Road. That crash claimed the lives of Melissa Smart, Otis Smart Jr., Terry Smart, and Triston Hunter Smart, and left Kali Smart, Triston’s wife, critically injured. She remains hospitalized in Houston.
The recent string of deadly incidents on FM 92 has left the Hardin County community shaken, with families now grieving the loss of six lives in just over a week.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances of Thursday’s crash. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Texas Department of Public Safety.
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