The community is mourning the loss of two Rivercrest High School students this morning after a tragic accident took the lives of 17-year-old Brandon “Luke” Earley and 18-year-old Kolby “Tut” Fletcher yesterday afternoon.
An outpouring of love from friends, family, and even strangers in the community has flooded social media.
“Oh, my heart. I can’t believe this. Prayers going up for our community,” said one friend of the family.
Another posted, “Hearts breaking all over. My thoughts and prayers are with all those impacted by today’s tragedy”
Even local law enforcement has expressed their condolences for friends and family and also offered support to those first responders on the scene.
“First of all, I want the families from today’s tragedy to know that my heart breaks for each and every one of you. I pray for strength, understanding, forgiveness, and peace for you all. Second: In my 20 years in public safety I have been on the best and worst of calls and have first-hand knowledge of the pain that the first responders are feeling tonight. I pray that the demons that we all suffer from do not tax you tonight or in the days to come. Third: For any family member or first responder, if the need to talk ever arises and the demons are too much to bare then please, please, call me. I will listen, talk, cuss, and cry with you and help you through this or any trying times that lay ahead. Love and Prayers for all,” said Officer Mark Gable.
“Y’all please keep Rivercrest ISD, these 2 families of boys, and the first responders that worked the wreck in your prayers,” said another.
Texas Department of Public Safety Information Officer Mark Tackett stated the wreck happened around 3:30 p.m. Friday afternoon on Texas HWY 37.
“A three-quarter ton Dodge pickup, driven by Earley, went to make a u-turn in the middle of the highway when Fletcher, who was driving a 1997 one-ton pickup struck Early,” said Tackett.
Tackett said both drivers were wearing seatbelts and want to make it clear that the two drivers weren’t driving irresponsibly and there is nothing suspicious. Officials are unsure at this time why Earley was making a u-turn in the middle of the road.
Editors note: The team at myparistexas.com are deeply saddened by the news of Brandon and Kolby passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends and all those who knew and loved Brandon and Kolby.
PHOTO: Rivercrest Rebel Boys Basketball
