A quiet Wednesday morning in Point Comfort turned devastating when a single-vehicle crash claimed the life of 19-year-old Daniel Cuellar of Port Lavaca. The collision happened around 7:44 a.m. at the junction of State Highway 35 and Farm-to-Market Road 2143 in Calhoun County. What began as a routine drive ended in heartbreak.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Daniel was heading west on FM 2143 in a silver Chevrolet Silverado when his vehicle drifted onto the right shoulder. The truck lost control, veered off the road, entered a bar ditch, and slammed into a tree. The impact was severe, and Daniel was ejected from the vehicle during the crash.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene. Daniel was airlifted for treatment, initially destined for Memorial Hermann Downtown in Houston. But during flight, he experienced medical complications, forcing the medical helicopter to divert to OakBend Medical Center in Wharton. Despite the best efforts of medical crews, he was pronounced dead at 9:35 a.m.
Authorities say the Texas DPS is actively investigating the cause of the crash, working to piece together what led Daniel’s truck off the road and into the fatal collision.
The community in Port Lavaca and surrounding areas is reeling from this sudden loss. Daniel, remembered for his warm spirit, kind nature, and the laughter he shared, leaves behind grieving family and friends who are struggling with the void his absence creates.
Although his life was short, those who knew Daniel speak of the light he brought into rooms, the encouragement he offered, and the genuine connections he made. In mourning him, they’re also holding tightly to the many memories he gave.
His passing is a sobering reminder of how fragile life can be—how quickly ordinary moments can end in tragedy. May Daniel’s memory live on, carried in the hearts of those who loved him, bringing comfort in the days ahead.