Kaufman County, TX – A devastating multi-vehicle collision on Interstate 20 has left a North Texas community heartbroken, claiming the life of 15-year-old Kason McKellar and four others in a catastrophic tragedy that unfolded over the weekend. The Texas Department of Public Safety has confirmed the fatal incident, which occurred in Kaufman County and involved a commercial truck allegedly driven by a fatigued driver.
Kason McKellar, a vibrant teen from Fort Worth, was traveling with his family on Saturday when their vehicle was violently struck by a large truck that authorities say barreled through traffic at high speed after the driver reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. The truck, operated by Hope Trans LLC of Tacoma, Washington, crossed into opposing lanes and crashed into the McKellar family vehicle, among others, resulting in a scene of utter destruction.
Killed in the tragic collision were Kason’s father, Zabar McKellar, his mother, Krishaun McKellar, and his grandfather, Billy McKellar. The family, known for their close-knit bond and love for one another, perished together in the tragic moment that ended what should have been a normal family outing.
The only surviving member of the immediate family is Kason’s 20-year-old sister, Evan McKellar, who remains in critical condition at Parkland Hospital in Dallas. She is currently under intensive care as doctors work tirelessly to stabilize her condition. Family members and community supporters have expressed their anguish and hope as Evan continues to fight for her life.
The driver of the commercial vehicle, identified as Alexis Osmani Gonzalez-Companioni, 27, has been arrested and charged with five counts of manslaughter and one count of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. According to officials, Gonzalez-Companioni’s fatigue caused him to fall asleep while driving, resulting in the deadly crash. His vehicle, part of a fleet owned by Hope Trans LLC, has now become the subject of increased scrutiny.
Records show that Hope Trans LLC has faced prior compliance issues related to federal hours-of-service regulations—rules that are meant to ensure commercial drivers are properly rested. The company has not responded to inquiries about the incident or its operating procedures, fueling concern about industry oversight and accountability.
The crash also claimed the life of a fifth unidentified victim in a separate vehicle caught in the chain-reaction impact. Authorities are working to notify next of kin and have pledged to release additional details following their identification.
As the community processes this unimaginable loss, a GoFundMe page has been launched to help cover the medical costs for Evan McKellar. The verified fundraiser has already received an outpouring of support from friends, extended family, and strangers alike. In a statement posted on the page, surviving relatives expressed heartfelt gratitude for the prayers, condolences, and financial assistance that have flooded in during this painful time.
“This is a loss that words cannot fully express,” the post reads. “We are holding onto hope for Evan and are overwhelmed by the love that has been shown to our family.”
Officials are expected to release further information regarding the ongoing investigation on Wednesday. Meanwhile, advocates are calling for renewed attention to trucking safety standards and driver fatigue, which continues to be a leading cause of fatal accidents involving commercial vehicles.
For now, the community mourns a tremendous loss — that of a bright, kind-hearted teenager, his loving parents, and a devoted grandfather. The McKellar family, known for their generosity and strong family values, will be remembered for the warmth they brought to those around them.
In the wake of this profound tragedy, loved ones, classmates, and neighbors are left asking the most difficult question of all: how such a preventable act of negligence could destroy an entire family in seconds.
Memorial and funeral arrangements for the McKellar family are currently pending and will be shared in the coming days as loved ones gather to honor their memory.
