North Texas Man Killed in Fatal Hit-and-Run

Police searching for suspect who fled the scene in a black Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A pedestrian was killed in a hit-and-run incident on Sunday morning in Henderson County, Texas. Police say the victim was struck by a black Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck, model year 2016-2018, that was traveling westbound on FM 2709 near Athens. The driver reportedly fled the scene, and officials are still searching for the suspect.

Why it matters

Hit-and-run incidents are a serious problem, often leaving victims without justice and raising concerns about public safety on rural roads. This tragedy highlights the need for improved driver accountability and better enforcement to prevent such senseless loss of life.

The details

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the crash occurred around 7 a.m. as the victim was walking in the 4200 block of FM 2709, north of Athens and west of State Highway 19. Evidence from the scene indicates the victim was struck by a black Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck, model year 2016-2018, that was traveling westbound toward Eustace. The victim died from injuries suffered in the crash, and the driver reportedly fled the scene.

  • The crash happened at around 7 a.m. on Sunday, February 16, 2026.

The players

Texas Department of Public Safety

The state law enforcement agency investigating the hit-and-run incident.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

Officials say the suspect vehicle will have damage to its front end and/or driver's side, and the investigation is ongoing as they search for the driver.

The takeaway

This tragic hit-and-run highlights the need for improved driver accountability and better enforcement to prevent such senseless loss of life on rural roads. The community is left searching for answers and justice for the victim.