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Tyler Today
By the People, for the People
3 Killed, 3 Injured in East Texas Car Crash
High school student and recent graduate among victims in single-vehicle wreck in Smith County
Published on Feb. 15, 2026
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Three teenage girls were killed and three more were injured in a single-vehicle crash early Sunday morning in Smith County, Texas. The victims included a recent high school graduate and an 11th grader from Palestine ISD. The car was traveling northbound on FM 2661 when it left the roadway and struck a tree.
Why it matters
The tragic accident has devastated the Palestine community, with the school district and basketball team mourning the loss of two young students. It highlights the dangers of reckless driving and the importance of road safety, especially for young drivers.
The details
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the victims were Raven Clewis, 19, of Dallas, Jumija Clewis, 17, of Elkhart, and Sherie Butler, 17, of Palestine. They were all pronounced dead at the scene. Two other 17-year-old girls, Jaylah Spurlock and Brianna Price of Palestine, were taken to Tyler hospitals with non-incapacitating injuries, while 16-year-old Chimsi Okonkwo was hospitalized with incapacitating injuries.
- The crash occurred around 3 a.m. on Sunday, February 15, 2026.
- A student-led vigil will be held in front of Palestine High School on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.
The players
Raven Clewis
A 19-year-old from Dallas who was killed in the crash.
Jumija Clewis
A 17-year-old from Elkhart and recent high school graduate who was killed in the crash.
Sherie Butler
A 17-year-old from Palestine and 11th grader who was killed in the crash.
Jaylah Spurlock
A 17-year-old from Palestine who was injured in the crash.
Brianna Price
A 17-year-old from Palestine who was injured in the crash.
What they’re saying
“It is with great sadness Palestine ISD shares the loss of PHS students, students Ju'Mija Clewis and Sheriee Butler. Ju'Mija graduated with the class of 23, and Sheriee had completed her junior year at PHS. Please remember their families in your prayers as they move through this difficult time.”
— Palestine ISD, Director of Public Relations (Palestine ISD)
“Getting that news early in the morning is just devastating and shocking.”
— Larissa Loveless, Palestine ISD Director of Public Relations (KETK)
What’s next
Texas DPS said the investigation into the crash is ongoing.
The takeaway
This tragic accident has deeply impacted the Palestine community, highlighting the need for increased road safety education and awareness, especially among young drivers. The student-led vigil planned for Wednesday will allow the community to come together and mourn the loss of these promising young lives.
