FATALITY VICTIM OF MAJOR ACCIDENT IDENTIFIED AS 21-YEAR-OLD JULISSA HERNANDEZ
NACOGDOCHES, TX (July 8, 2025) — A tragic early morning accident in Nacogdoches has claimed the life of a young woman, leaving her family and community devastated. Authorities have officially identified the victim of the fatal crash as Julissa Hernandez, a 21-year-old resident of Shelby County, Texas.
The incident occurred at approximately 3:56 a.m. in the 3800 block of N. University Drive, a stretch of road that became the site of unspeakable loss in the pre-dawn hours. According to initial reports from law enforcement, Julissa was operating a 2014 Cadillac Escalade traveling southbound when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle veered off the roadway.
The SUV left the paved surface and collided with several trees, sustaining significant damage in the process. Authorities believe that Julissa was ejected from the vehicle during the collision, a tragic factor that likely contributed to the fatal nature of the accident. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Nacogdoches Police Department, along with accident reconstruction specialists, are continuing their investigation into the cause of the crash. It is currently unclear whether factors such as speed, fatigue, or impairment played a role, and officials are awaiting toxicology and crash data results to piece together a full understanding of what happened.
As of now, no other vehicles are believed to have been involved, and no additional injuries were reported.
Julissa Hernandez was described by those who knew her as a bright, kind-hearted young woman with a promising future. Friends and family in Shelby County are reeling from the sudden loss. Just 21 years old, Julissa had her whole life ahead of her—a life filled with hopes, dreams, and the potential to make a lasting impact on those around her. She was known for her infectious smile, her resilience, and her deep love for her family and friends.
“Julissa was the kind of person who lit up a room just by walking into it,” one family friend shared. “She was full of life, full of dreams, and always thinking of others.”
News of her death has sent a wave of grief through both Nacogdoches and Shelby County, where the young woman’s loved ones are now forced to plan a funeral instead of celebrating the milestones she was yet to reach. A memorial is already forming near the crash site, as flowers, candles, and notes of remembrance are left by friends and passersby.
The community is being asked to keep Julissa’s family in their thoughts and prayers during this unimaginable time, especially her parents, siblings, and close friends who are navigating the heartbreak of losing her so suddenly.
Additional updates on the crash and arrangements for Julissa’s memorial or funeral services will be released as they become available.
Anyone with additional information about the accident is encouraged to contact the Nacogdoches Police Department as the investigation continues.
Rest in peace, Julissa Hernandez.
You were taken far too soon, but your light will never be forgotten. 💔🕊️