ELGIN, Texas — Tragedy struck late saturday night when a multi-vehicle crash at the intersection of US Highway 290 North and Saratoga Farms Boulevard claimed the lives of two individuals and left several others hospitalized.

According to the Elgin Police Department, officers were dispatched to the scene at approximately 11:55 p.m. on August 30, 2025. One officer, who was fueling his vehicle at a nearby QT gas station, immediately responded and assisted in extracting multiple patients from vehicles involved in the collision. Two of the vehicles were reported to have caught fire.

Among the victims, 66-year-old Robbie Carter of McDade, Texas, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Emergency responders transported multiple injured patients via ambulance and helicopter to area hospitals in Austin. Tragically, upon arrival at the hospital, 13-year-old Yareli Padierna of Elgin was also pronounced dead. Four additional patients remain hospitalized at local medical facilities.

The Elgin Police Department’s Crash Reconstruction Team, Crime Scene Unit, and Command staff responded to the incident to assist in the investigation. The cause of the crash remains under review as authorities examine all contributing factors.

Officials are asking anyone with information about the incident to contact Lt. Matthew Hicks at 512-285-5757 or via email at matthew.hicks@elgintexas.gov.

This tragic collision has left families and the community mourning, highlighting the devastating consequences of serious roadway accidents. Authorities continue to investigate and have pledged to provide updates as more information becomes available.