TYLER, Texas — Community Mourns After Bicyclist Killed in Overnight Hit-and-Run Crash
Tragedy struck in the early hours of Thursday morning in Smith County, Texas, as a bicyclist lost his life in a hit-and-run crash along State Highway 64 East near Old Oak Bay Road. The Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) has confirmed that the victim, who was riding his bicycle during the overnight hours, was struck by an unknown vehicle that fled the scene without stopping.
Authorities responded to the 1600 block of State Highway 64 East, where they found the bicyclist deceased at the site of the crash. The driver involved in the collision did not remain at the scene, and no suspect vehicle description has been released as of yet.
DPS Sgt. Adam Albritton reported that the fatal incident took place in the middle of the night, a time when visibility is often low and traffic is sparse, making such crashes especially dangerous and devastating. The bicyclist, later identified by family members as Enrique Gomez, was confirmed dead upon discovery. No other individuals were reported injured.
Enrique Gomez is remembered by his loved ones as a kind, hardworking, and devoted family man. Friends and family have expressed profound grief at his sudden and senseless death. In response to the tragic loss, a GoFundMe page has been launched to help cover funeral expenses and support the grieving family during this difficult time. The fundraiser has already begun to receive support from both locals and members of the broader community who were touched by Enrique’s story.
The Texas Department of Public Safety is now leading the investigation into the fatal hit-and-run and is urging anyone who may have information about the crash or the vehicle involved to come forward. Investigators are hopeful that someone may have witnessed the collision, noticed a suspicious vehicle in the area around the time of the crash, or seen damage on a car that could link it to the incident.
As the investigation unfolds, the community is left grappling with the tragedy and calling for justice for Enrique Gomez. His death adds to a growing concern about roadway safety, particularly for pedestrians and cyclists navigating highways during nighttime hours. Advocates are using the moment to reiterate the need for increased driver awareness, better lighting along bike routes, and enhanced accountability when drivers fail to remain at crash scenes.
CBS19 has stated that they are continuing to follow this story and will provide updates as new details emerge. In the meantime, anyone with information is strongly encouraged to contact the Texas Department of Public Safety.
A life lost, a family in mourning, and a community searching for answers — Enrique Gomez will not be forgotten.