On March 29, 2017, a devastating accident near Garner State Park in Concan, Texas, claimed the lives of 13 senior citizens from the First Baptist Church in New Braunfels. This tragic event shook the community and left a lasting impact on those who cherish the beauty and serenity of Garner State Park.
What was the cause of the 2017 accident involving a church group near Garner State Park?
The 2017 accident near Garner State Park occurred when a Dodge pickup truck crossed the center lane on Highway 83 and collided head-on with a small van carrying the church group. The accident happened around 12:23 p.m. on Wednesday, March 29, 2017, near Majors Crossing.
How many fatalities occurred in the 2017 bus accident near Garner State Park?
Tragically, 13 people were killed in the accident, including the driver of the bus, Murray Barrett, a semi-retired math teacher. The victims were all senior citizens from the First Baptist Church in New Braunfels, who were returning from a 3-day retreat at the Alto Frio Baptist Camp and Conference Center near Leakey, Texas.
What was the circumstance surrounding the death of an off-duty Border Patrol agent near Garner State Park in 2023?
In 2023, an off-duty Border Patrol agent tragically lost his life in a separate incident near Garner State Park. The circumstances surrounding this incident are still under investigation, and authorities have not yet released detailed information about the event.
How did the community respond to the 2017 Garner State Park accident?
The accident near Garner State Park in 2017 was a devastating blow to the community. Governor Greg Abbott released a statement expressing condolences to the victims and their families, thanking first responders, and asking all Texans to offer their thoughts and prayers. The First Baptist Church in New Braunfels canceled all events for the evening and opened its sanctuary for prayer and support, as the church community gathered to grieve and offer support to the affected families.
What was the response from authorities and investigators?
Multiple first-responding agencies were at the scene of the 2017 accident, including DPS, EMS units, and Airlife. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) investigated the crash, and the highway was closed for several hours, with traffic rerouted through state Highway 127 in Concan and FM 1050 near the state park.
How can park enthusiasts and tour planners learn from the Garner State Park 2017 accident?
The tragic events of 2017 serve as a somber reminder for park enthusiasts and tour planners to prioritize safety and be vigilant when planning and executing trips to Garner State Park and other outdoor destinations. It is crucial to stay informed about road conditions, weather forecasts, and any potential hazards that may arise during the journey. Additionally, ensuring proper vehicle maintenance, driver training, and emergency preparedness can help mitigate the risks associated with travel to and from these beautiful natural spaces.
As we reflect on the Garner State Park 2017 accident, let us honor the memory of those who lost their lives by recommitting ourselves to the responsible and respectful enjoyment of our state’s natural wonders. By learning from this tragedy and implementing safety measures, we can help ensure that future visits to Garner State Park and similar destinations are filled with the wonder and joy that these places inspire.
References:
- https://www.ksat.com/news/2017/03/29/multiple-fatalities-reported-in-crash-near-garner-state-park/
- https://www.sacurrent.com/news/13-killed-in-church-group-bus-crash-near-garner-state-park-3298460
- https://www.click2houston.com/news/2017/03/30/victims-identified-in-deadly-bus-crash-near-garner-state-park/
- https://www.wfaa.com/article/news/state/texas-news/13-dead-3-injured-in-crash-involving-church-bus-near-garner-state-park/287-426621754
- https://news4sanantonio.com/news/local/breaking-multiple-fatalities-confirmed-near-garner-state-park