Man and Women Fatally Injured in Axtel Crash Die

Two people critically injured in a traffic collision east of Axtell have passed away.

Our partners at News 10 and the Texas Department of Public Safety report that Richard Raines, 58, of Dawson and Carol Cornelius, 76, of Mount Calm, were hospitalized after an April 29 crash on State Highway 31 at FM 2311.

Raines reportedly ran a stop sign while traveling south on FM 2311, and his truck was hit by Cornelius' vehicle. Raines was not wearing a seat belt and was ejected from his truck.

Two things stand out to me here - 1, Raines ran a stop sign, putting himself and other drivers in danger; and 2, his seat belt might have saved his life had he been wearing it.

Cornelius was just in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Especially given the wet conditions lately, we hope you're all being careful on our local roads. Never count on other people to follow the law and obey signs. Drive with your life and the lives of your passengers top of mind.