Landon Harris, Jarrett Hawkins Obituary, Death: Lorena teen and two others die in crash just days before graduation.

Landon Harris, Jarrett Hawkins Obituary, Death – A tragic car crash in Texas has claimed the lives of three people, including an 18-year-old Lorena High School senior, just days before his scheduled graduation. The fatal accident occurred early Tuesday morning, May 20, on U.S. Highway 77, shortly south of the Milam County line, and is currently under investigation by the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).

According to preliminary findings released by DPS troopers, the crash involved two pickup trucks: a Toyota Tacoma and a Dodge Ram. The Toyota Tacoma was headed southbound on the highway when, for reasons still under investigation, it crossed the center line into the northbound lane. There, it collided head-on with the Dodge Ram traveling in the opposite direction.

The crash was reported around 7:00 a.m., and first responders quickly arrived at the scene. Sadly, all three individuals involved in the collision were pronounced dead at the site due to the severity of their injuries.

Authorities identified the victims as 18-year-old Landon Harris and 36-year-old Jarrett Hawkins, who were both inside the Toyota Tacoma. Harris was a student at Lorena High School, set to graduate in just a few days. The driver of the Dodge Ram was identified as 49-year-old Daniel Phillips. All next-of-kin notifications have been made, DPS confirmed.

The news has devastated the Lorena community, especially those close to Landon Harris, who was described by family, friends, and teachers as a kind-hearted and driven young man. His unexpected death has struck a deep emotional chord with classmates and faculty at Lorena High, where preparations for graduation had been underway.

In response to the tragedy, a GoFundMe campaign was quickly launched to support the Harris family with funeral and related expenses. The fundraiser has drawn an outpouring of community support, raising over \$36,000 within a short span of time. Donations continue to come in, reflecting how deeply Landon’s life and sudden passing have affected those around him.

While the investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing, officials have not yet released further details about what might have led the Toyota Tacoma to drift into oncoming traffic. No information has been provided on whether speed, distraction, mechanical failure, or road conditions played a role.

Community members and officials have expressed condolences to the families of all three men, recognizing the immense grief and loss they are now experiencing. The collision not only took the life of a young student with a bright future but also ended the lives of two other individuals, both of whom leave behind family and friends mourning their loss.

The Lorena Independent School District issued a brief statement acknowledging the loss of Landon Harris, offering support to students and staff during this incredibly difficult time. Crisis counselors have been made available on campus for anyone struggling with the tragedy.

Jarrett Hawkins, the other passenger in the Tacoma, was also a known member of the local community. Though fewer personal details have been released about him and Daniel Phillips, tributes are beginning to emerge from those who knew them, reflecting the broad emotional impact of the incident.

Highway 77 was closed for several hours following the crash as investigators and emergency personnel worked to document the scene, assist in recovery efforts, and clear the roadway. Traffic was later reopened, but the emotional toll from the crash remains.

As DPS continues to piece together what led to the fatal accident, they urge drivers to remain vigilant on the roads, especially on rural highways where high-speed traffic and narrow lanes can increase the risk of serious collisions.

The loss of Landon Harris is especially painful given its timing — so close to the celebratory milestone of high school graduation. Friends have taken to social media to share memories, photos, and heartfelt messages, many struggling to come to terms with the fact that someone so young and full of promise is gone so suddenly.

Plans for a memorial or tribute in honor of Landon are reportedly being discussed among community members and school officials, who hope to honor his memory in a meaningful way. For now, the focus remains on supporting the grieving families and offering comfort during this time of unimaginable loss.

This devastating incident serves as a solemn reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of road safety. As families prepare to lay their loved ones to rest, the broader community of Lorena and surrounding areas stands united in mourning — and in offering strength to those left behind.