The communities of Southeast Texas are mourning the heartbreaking loss of two lives taken far too soon following a tragic crash in Jasper County. Serenity Rivera and Meagan Martin lost their lives on the evening of March 6, 2026, in a devastating three-vehicle collision along State Highway 62 near County Road 825. Their sudden passing has left family members, friends, and the wider community in deep sorrow as they struggle to process an unimaginable loss.
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, troopers responded to the crash around 8 p.m. Friday night. Preliminary investigations indicate that a Honda passenger car and a Chevrolet pickup were traveling south on State Highway 62, while a Dodge pickup was traveling north. Authorities reported that the driver of the Dodge crossed into the oncoming lane, sideswiping the Honda before striking the Chevrolet pickup.
The driver of the Honda, a 45-year-old woman from Bridge City, was not injured in the crash. However, the collision proved fatal for the driver of the Chevrolet pickup, identified as 35-year-old Meagan Martin of Groves, and her 13-year-old passenger, Serenity Rivera. Both were tragically pronounced deceased at the scene by a Justice of the Peace.
The driver of the Dodge pickup, identified as Timmy Castillo, 57, of Buna, was transported to a hospital in Beaumont with non-life-threatening injuries.
The crash occurred near the line separating Jasper County and Newton County, prompting multiple law enforcement agencies and emergency responders to assist with traffic control and the ongoing investigation. Authorities have confirmed that the crash remains under active investigation as officials work to determine the full circumstances surrounding the tragic incident.
While the investigation continues, the loss of Serenity Rivera and Meagan Martin has left an indescribable void in the hearts of those who knew and loved them.
Meagan Martin was known as a compassionate and devoted woman whose life revolved around caring for others. Friends and loved ones describe her as someone who carried a gentle spirit and a generous heart. She was the kind of person who always showed up for the people in her life, offering encouragement, kindness, and unwavering support whenever it was needed. Her presence brought warmth to those around her, and her loss is deeply felt by family members, friends, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her.
Serenity Rivera, just 13 years old, had a life full of dreams still waiting to unfold. She was at an age where the world was filled with possibility — a young girl discovering her passions, building friendships, and looking toward a bright future. Those who knew Serenity remember her as a vibrant and loving child whose smile could light up a room. Her laughter, her innocence, and the joy she brought to others made her deeply cherished by everyone around her.
The loss of a child is an unimaginable heartbreak, and the loss of a loved one so young leaves an entire community grieving the life that should have been. Serenity’s friends, classmates, and loved ones are left holding onto the precious memories they shared with her — memories that will forever remain in their hearts.
For the families of both Serenity and Meagan, this tragedy is a pain beyond words. Losing someone unexpectedly in such a devastating way leaves behind grief that cannot easily be measured. In the days ahead, their loved ones will lean on each other, on their communities, and on the many memories that remind them of the beautiful lives that were taken too soon.
Across Southeast Texas, people are coming together in prayer, compassion, and remembrance. Messages of support and sympathy continue to pour in as friends, neighbors, and community members stand beside the grieving families during this difficult time.
Though their lives were tragically cut short, the memories of Serenity Rivera and Meagan Martin will continue to live on through the love they shared, the kindness they showed, and the lives they touched. Their stories will be remembered by those who knew them, and their spirits will remain forever present in the hearts of their families and communities.
As the community mourns this devastating loss, many are keeping the families of Serenity Rivera and Meagan Martin in their thoughts and prayers, hoping they may find strength, comfort, and healing in the support that surrounds them.
May Serenity Rivera and Meagan Martin rest in eternal peace, and may their memories forever be a blessing to all who loved them.









