The small town of Lampasas, Texas was rocked by tragedy on August 14 when a fatal crash claimed the lives of five individuals. The Texas Department of Public Safety confirmed the identities of those involved in the devastating accident, shedding light on the heartbreaking loss experienced by the community.
The crash occurred at approximately 5:45 a.m. on U.S. Route 281, just six miles north of Lampasas. The collision involved a 2004 Cadillac CTS driven by 31-year-old Jacinto Gudino Duran from Copperas Cove and a 2024 Kia Telluride operated by 45-year-old Mani Arvind from Leander. The circumstances leading up to the crash were tragic, with evidence indicating that a blowout of the Cadillac’s right rear tire caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle.
Witnesses reported that the Cadillac was traveling at a high rate of speed prior to the collision, further complicating the situation. The vehicle crossed over into the northbound lane, directly into the path of the Kia, resulting in a devastating impact that claimed the lives of all five individuals involved in the crash.
Among the victims were 23-year-old Yosilu Gasman Martinez-Lopez from Copperas Cove, who was a passenger in the Cadillac, and 40-year-old Pradeepa Arvind and 17-year-old Andril Arvind, who were passengers in the Kia. The loss of these individuals has left a void in the hearts of their loved ones and the community as a whole.
In the wake of this tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to support 14-year-old Adiryan Arvind, the sole surviving member of the Arvind family. Mani and Pradeepa Arvind were on their way to the University of Texas at Dallas to assist Andril with her move-in day when the accident occurred, leaving Adiryan without his family as he embarks on a new chapter in his life.
The outpouring of support for Adiryan and the Arvind family has been overwhelming, with donations pouring in to help ease the burden of this unimaginable loss. As of early Saturday morning, over $758,000 has been raised to support Adiryan as he navigates the challenges of starting ninth grade without his loved ones by his side.
The tragic events that unfolded on that fateful day have left the community of Lampasas reeling, grappling with the profound impact of such a devastating loss. As the families and friends of the victims mourn their loved ones, the outpouring of support and generosity serves as a beacon of hope in the midst of darkness, reminding us of the power of unity and compassion in times of tragedy.
In the midst of grief and sorrow, the resilience and strength of the community shine through, offering solace and support to those affected by this heartbreaking event. As we come together to honor the memories of those lost in the crash, may we also rally around Adiryan Arvind, offering him the love and support he needs to navigate this difficult journey ahead.