In the quiet early hours of Sunday, 20-year-old Wyatt Reese Golden from Amarillo lost his life when the SUV he was driving veered off the southbound frontage road of Interstate 27 near New Deal in northern Lubbock County and rolled over, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS).
Authorities say Golden was headed southbound around 12:30 a.m. when his vehicle drifted off the left side of the road. In an attempt to correct the drift, he oversteered, causing the SUV to roll. Emergency crews arrived at the scene and pronounced him dead on arrival.
DPS reports indicate that road conditions were clear at the time of the crash, and no other vehicles were involved in the incident. The investigation remains ongoing as troopers work to determine all possible contributing factors.
One of the heartbreaking details shared: Golden was not wearing a seat belt when the crash happened. DPS emphasized this point to underscore the vital role of restraints.
Golden’s death has sent a shock wave through his family, friends and the Amarillo community. Often described as young, full of potential and life ahead, his sudden loss has served as a somber reminder of how quickly tragedy can strike when driving unsafely or when split-second moments go wrong.
In their statement, DPS officials urged all drivers to remain constantly vigilant, to respect the road at all hours, and most importantly, to always buckle up — regardless of how short or familiar the trip. They emphasise that wearing a seat belt dramatically improves chances of survival when crashes occur.
As the community mourns, plans for memorials and support for his loved ones are beginning to take shape. Friends remember Golden for his laughter, his dreams, his drive — and the void left behind in the wake of this single, tragic vehicle rollover will long be felt. The message from authorities to every motorist is clear: safety isn’t optional — it’s essential.