Tessa Bridges and Tanaya Scott Killed in Smith County Two-Vehicle Crash on State Highway 31

Smith County, Texas (April 14, 2023) – Two people were killed, and two others were injured early Sunday morning in a head-on collision in Smith County, according to the Texas DPS.

The fatal crash happened around 5:25 a.m., April 9, on State Highway 31, just east of Tyler.

DPS said Tanaya R. Scott, 21, of Whitehouse, was driving a Toyota westbound while Tessa D. Bridges, 24, of Longview, was driving a Honda eastbound.

The Toyota crossed the centerline into the oncoming lane and crashed head-on into the Honda.

Both Scott and Bridges were pronounced dead at the scene.

Blake Lee, 28, of Tyler, and Kaylee Choice, 21, of Whitehouse, who were passengers in Scott’s vehicle, were taken to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The crash remains under investigation.

Common Causes of Automobile Accidents

There are many different reasons why automobile, pedestrian, 18-wheeler, bicycle, 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.