On September 28, 2024, at 7:54 p.m., a crash on State Highway 19 in Van Zandt County resulted in two fatalities and three injuries. The incident occurred 1.3 miles south of US 80, where the posted speed limit is 70 MPH and road conditions were dry.
The first vehicle involved was a 2014 Ford Focus, driven by 63-year-old Karen Carlisle of Wills Point, TX, who was pronounced deceased at the scene.
The second vehicle was a 2019 Dodge Journey, driven by 24-year-old Sara Stoehr of Larue, TX, who was also pronounced deceased by medical staff at Christus Trinity Mother Frances-Canton, TX.
Three children were passengers in the Dodge Journey: 4-year-old Waylon Stepp, 5-year-old Aubryie Stoehr, and 10-month-old Suttyn Stepp, all of Larue, TX. They were transported to Children’s Hospital Dallas for treatment.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the Ford Focus was traveling north on SH 19 when it crossed into the southbound lane and struck the Dodge Journey.
The investigation is ongoing, and no additional information is available at this time. The incident is being investigated by Trooper D. Ford of Van Zandt County DPS.
