Greenville, Texas, December 9, 2025
A tragic accident in Greenville, Texas, claimed the life of 26-year-old Deputy Chief Austin Cooley from South Hunt County Fire Rescue. The collision, which occurred at the intersection of State Highway 34 and County Road 2186, left the community in mourning. Cooley was known for his dedication to public service, and investigations into the cause of the accident are currently ongoing. Tributes from colleagues and residents have poured in as plans for a memorial service are announced.
Greenville, Texas – Tragic Loss of Deputy Fire Chief Austin Cooley
Greenville, Texas – A tragic traffic accident on Monday claimed the life of 26-year-old Deputy Chief Austin Cooley of South Hunt County Fire Rescue. The collision occurred near the intersection of State Highway 34 and County Road 2186, approximately one mile south of Greenville. Cooley was pronounced dead at the scene.
Details of the Incident
According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, Cooley was driving northbound in his 2005 Honda Accord when it crossed into the southbound lane and collided head-on with a 2013 Dodge Ram pickup truck. The driver of the pickup truck’s condition remains unclear, as investigators have not released further information. Cooley was returning home from his duties as an officer with the Kaufman Police Department at the time of the accident.
Background Information
Cooley was a dedicated public servant, having served both as a deputy fire chief and a police officer in the region. He was known for his tireless commitment to the community and the citizens of Hunt County and the City of Kaufman. Cooley grew up in North Texas and attended Collin County Community College and Dallas College’s Eastfield Campus. He most recently resided in Wolfe City in Hunt County. The cause of the accident is under investigation, and no additional details have been released at this time.
Related Incidents in the Region
This incident follows a series of tragic events involving first responders in the area. In January 2025, off-duty Dallas Police Officer Gabriel Bixby, 29, was killed in a motorcycle accident in southern Hunt County. Bixby had served in the Dallas Police Department since 2018 and was assigned to the Northeast Patrol Division. The circumstances surrounding his death are still under investigation. These incidents highlight the risks faced by first responders and the importance of road safety for all drivers.
Community Response
The community has expressed deep sorrow over the loss of Deputy Chief Cooley. Tributes have poured in from colleagues, residents, and local officials, all honoring his service and dedication. The South Hunt County Fire Rescue department has announced plans to hold a memorial service to celebrate Cooley’s life and contributions to the community. Details of the service will be provided once arrangements are finalized.
Investigation and Safety Measures
The Texas Department of Public Safety is leading the investigation into the cause of the accident. Authorities are urging drivers to exercise caution, adhere to traffic laws, and remain vigilant, especially when traveling on highways and rural roads. The safety of first responders and all motorists is a shared responsibility, and the community is encouraged to support efforts aimed at improving road safety.
Contact Information
For more information or to offer condolences, residents can contact the South Hunt County Fire Rescue department or visit their official website. Updates regarding the investigation and memorial services will be provided through official channels as they become available.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened in the traffic accident involving Deputy Chief Austin Cooley?
On December 8, 2025, Deputy Chief Austin Cooley was involved in a head-on collision near the intersection of State Highway 34 and County Road 2186, approximately one mile south of Greenville, Texas. He was pronounced dead at the scene.
What was Deputy Chief Cooley’s role in the community?
Deputy Chief Cooley served as a deputy fire chief with South Hunt County Fire Rescue and as an officer with the Kaufman Police Department. He was known for his dedication to the community and the citizens of Hunt County and the City of Kaufman.
Is the cause of the accident known?
The cause of the accident is currently under investigation by the Texas Department of Public Safety. No additional details have been released at this time.
Have there been similar incidents involving first responders in the area?
Yes, in January 2025, off-duty Dallas Police Officer Gabriel Bixby, 29, was killed in a motorcycle accident in southern Hunt County. The circumstances surrounding his death are still under investigation.
How can the community support the family and colleagues of Deputy Chief Cooley?
The community can offer condolences by contacting the South Hunt County Fire Rescue department or visiting their official website. Details regarding memorial services and support initiatives will be provided through official channels as they become available.
| Date and Time | Location | Victim’s Name | Age | Cause of Accident | Investigation Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| December 8, 2025 | Intersection of State Highway 34 and County Road 2186, approximately one mile south of Greenville, Texas | Austin Cooley | 26 | Under investigation | Ongoing |
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