Autumn Lynch Critically Injured in Fatal Bell County Two-Vehicle Crash on IH-14

Bell County, Texas (July 19, 2022) – Three people were killed, and another was critically injured early Saturday morning in a wrong-way crash in Bell County, according to the troopers.

The fatal crash happened around 1:56 a.m., July 16, on IH-14.

Troopers said Matthew Fernandez, 22, of Ft. Hood, was driving a 2017 Toyota Corolla eastbound in the westbound lanes when he collided head-on with a westbound 2013 Kia Optima driven by Autumn Lynch, 20, of Copperas Cove, Texas.

The Toyota caught fire after the crash.

Fernandez was pronounced dead at the scene. It is presumed that he might have been drunk.

Two rear seat passengers in the Kia, 22-year-old Joshua Smith of Copperas Cove, Texas, and 20-year-old Aaliyah Marie Peinado, of Nipomo, California, were also pronounced dead at the scene.

Lynch was taken to Baylor Scott and White in Temple in critical condition. She sustained a spinal fracture alongside a broken hip and arm. A GoFundMe has been launched.

The crash remains under investigation.

Common Causes of Automobile Accidents

There are many different reasons why automobile, 18-wheeler, and motorcycle accidents occur, including driver negligence, driver inattention, texting and driving, speeding, fatigue, failure to yield the right of way from a stop sign or private drive, running a red light, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. While the factors listed above are the main causes of most accidents, there may also be other factors involved, which is why it’s important that an investigation be conducted before evidence disappears, especially in cases involving a fatality.  At Joel A. Gordon & Associates, we will act quickly to secure accident scene photos, interview witnesses, obtain police records, and secure other valuable evidence needed to win your case.  Call now for a free consultation.

To speak with an attorney  Click to call: 281-943-5555.