Melissa Smart Obituary, Death: Silsbee Chamber Director Melissa Smart and three relatives killed in crash.
Melissa Smart Obituary, Death – A tragic crash in Texas has claimed the life of Melissa Smart, the Executive Director of the Silsbee Chamber of Commerce, along with three of her family members. The accident occurred late Friday night on Farm-to-Market Road 92 near Jim Burns Road, where a utility terrain vehicle (UTV) carrying five people pulled into the path of an oncoming tanker truck.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the crash happened at approximately 11:35 p.m. The UTV was struck by the tanker, resulting in the deaths of four of its occupants at the scene. The victims were identified as 33-year-old Melissa Smart, 46-year-old Otis Smart, 26-year-old Triston Smart, and 63-year-old Terry Smart — all residents of Kountze, Texas. A fifth person in the UTV, 30-year-old Kali Smart, was critically injured and transported to Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston for treatment.
The driver of the tanker truck, a man from Houston, sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to St. Elizabeth Hospital. Emergency crews arrived promptly to assist with the scene and manage the aftermath of the deadly collision.
However, during the emergency response, a secondary crash occurred. A Chevrolet Malibu traveling through the accident area collided with a stationary Hardin County patrol vehicle, which had its emergency lights on. The driver of the Malibu, a 44-year-old woman from Spurger, was also taken to St. Elizabeth Hospital with injuries that were not life-threatening. Fortunately, the deputy inside the patrol vehicle was not hurt.
The news of Melissa Smart’s death has deeply affected the Silsbee community. The Silsbee Chamber of Commerce released a heartfelt statement mourning her loss. They described Melissa as the “heart of the chamber,” known for her commitment to supporting local businesses, her love for the community, and her vibrant spirit. The Chamber emphasized how her passion and leadership left a lasting impression on everyone she worked with.
In honor of Melissa, the Chamber office will remain closed for the week to allow staff and the community time to grieve. The board of directors extended their deepest sympathies to Melissa’s family, friends, and everyone impacted by the tragedy.
Melissa Smart was more than just a leader in the business community — she was admired for her kindness, dedication, and visionary leadership. Her loss, along with that of her family members, has left a profound void in Silsbee.
The crash remains under investigation by Texas authorities. In the meantime, the community continues to reflect on the lives lost and offers prayers and support to those affected, especially to Kali Smart, who remains hospitalized with critical injuries.
