North Texas Officer Austin Cooley Killed in Wrong-Way Crash on Texas 34

A wrong‑way collision on Texas 34 early Monday morning killed 26‑year‑old Austin Cooley.

The Accident

Cooley was a deputy chief for South Hunt County Fire‑Rescue and a police officer in Kaufman.

He was driving home from his night shift when his Honda Accord crossed into oncoming traffic.

The collision occurred near Greenville on Texas 34.

A Dodge pickup truck was struck by the Accord.

Texas DPS investigators say the impact was caused by the wrong‑way entry.

First responders arrived at the scene around 8:30 a.m.

They confirmed that Cooley died at the location before they could reach him.

The police cruiser tribute stands outside Kaufman police headquarters.

The officer joined the department in May.

His uniform, including the patch and nametag, was still on him as he drove home.

The crash remains under investigation.

The Response

A crew from South Hunt County Fire‑Rescue was dispatched to the crash site.

They were unaware that the call was for one of their own.

“We realized who it was on scene. I saw the patch and then I saw his nametag,” said Capt. Tyler Ferrick.

Chief Ryan Biggers noted that the officer’s uniform was still on him.

“He drives home through our district,” Biggers said.

The crew arrived within minutes of the reported time.

They were able to identify Cooley immediately.

They were present at the scene.

They carried out the necessary emergency procedures.

The scene was secured promptly.

The crash was reported to Texas DPS for investigation.

The investigation continues to examine the circumstances.

Tributes

Assistant chief Robert Stagg called the event a “big loss.”

Dylan Seabolt added, “It was one of those things that you don’t forget. You probably won’t forget.”

Capt. Kiron Searl remarked, “Being someone close to you, a brother, it’s very different.”

The police cruiser tribute is a visible reminder of Cooley’s dedication.

Seabolt praised Cooley’s work ethic, saying, “He worked very hard to get where he was.”

The tribute is located outside the Kaufman police headquarters.

The community has gathered to honor his memory.

The officer’s colleagues mourn his passing.

The tribute serves as a lasting memorial.

It reflects the respect he earned across agencies.

It was established after the crash.

It symbolizes the collective grief of the first‑responder community.

Impact

Cooley left behind a newborn daughter.

He also left behind a wife.

A large family of first responders feels a deep sense of loss.

Chief Biggers noted that he was a new father to a three‑month‑old baby girl.

“Our hearts are hurting, and they’ll be hurting for a while,” he said.

The loss has affected colleagues and family alike.

The community in North Texas mourns the loss of a leader.

Cooley was known as a mentor and leader.

His dedication was evident across multiple agencies.

The tragedy has left a void in the community.

The family is coping with profound grief.

The community will remember his service for years.

Investigation

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Texas DPS investigators are examining the circumstances.

No definitive conclusions have been announced.

Authorities are continuing to investigate.

The investigation focuses on the wrong‑way collision.

The investigation seeks to determine the cause.

The investigation is ongoing.

The findings will be released when available.

The investigation is a priority for local agencies.

The community awaits the investigation’s outcome.

The investigation is part of standard procedure.

The investigation will provide clarity.

Cooley’s Career and Legacy

Austin Cooley served as deputy chief for South Hunt County Fire‑Rescue.

He also served as a police officer in Kaufman.

He joined the department in May.

He was known as a leader and mentor.

His dedication was evident across agencies.

He worked hard to reach his positions.

He was respected by colleagues.

He was a new father to a three‑month‑old daughter.

He left a lasting impact on the community.

His service will be remembered.

His colleagues honored him with tributes.

His legacy continues through those he mentored.

Key Takeaways

• Austin Cooley, 26, was a deputy chief and police officer.
• The crash on Texas 34 involved a Honda Accord and a Dodge pickup truck.
• First responders confirmed his death at the scene.
• The police cruiser tribute stands outside Kaufman headquarters.
• The investigation into the crash remains ongoing.
• Cooley left behind a newborn daughter, a wife, and a family of first responders.
• The community mourns his loss.
• His leadership and mentorship were widely respected.
• The officer’s career began in May.
• The tragedy highlights the risks faced by first responders.
• The investigation will clarify the cause.
• The community will carry his memory forward.

Closing

The North Texas community will continue to honor Austin Cooley’s legacy while awaiting the outcome of the investigation.