Smart Family fatally injured in Hardin Co. UTV crash

HARDIN CO., TX – A major collision involving a utility task vehicle and a commercial motor vehicle claimed four people last Friday in northeast Hardin County.

According to KFDM 6, the two-vehicle accident occurred around 11:30 p.m. near the intersection of FM 92 and Jim Burns Road, which is north of Silsbee and about 35 miles northwest of Beaumont.

Police say that a southbound CMV struck a UTV carrying five people when the driver of the latter vehicle entered the roadway in front of the CMV from Jim Burns.

Four people on the UTV succumbed to their injuries at the scene of the crash. Authorities identified the victims as 33-year-old Melissa Smart, 46-year-old Otis Smart, 63-year-old Terry Smart, and 26-year-old Triston Smart.

Medics airlifted a fifth victim, identified as 30-year-old Kali Smart, to an area hospital with critical injuries.

The driver of the CMV required hospitalization for non-critical injuries.

A full investigation is underway.

If you’re grieving the loss of a family member in a Hardin County motor vehicle accident, please accept our deepest condolences. As you mourn your loved one, know that the Texas wrongful death attorneys at The Benton Law Firm can help you navigate the legal process and pursue a just outcome. Call us today at (214) 777-7777 or reach us online for a free consultation.

Note: The information included in this post was derived from secondary sources and has not been independently confirmed. Any inaccurate information will be corrected immediately after being brought to the site’s attention. If you identify any false information within this story, please inform us immediately so we can adjust the post to contain the most accurate information available surrounding this event.

Disclaimer: The intent of this post is to provide general information to our readers and to help improve the safety and quality of life of those who live in our state. At the Benton Law Firm, we intend to honor those who are victimized in accidents across Texas. We aim to provide up to date information to the public surrounding these incidents in hopes of helping others to avoid becoming victims themselves or to know how to respond should a tragedy occur. Do not rely on any information within this post. Instead, seek further assistance from a legal or medical professional whenever necessary.