Five young friends from Dallas were killed in a tragic Texas crash on July 25, 2025, while heading to Kingsland to celebrate Thalia Salinas’ 23rd birthday. The victims—Thalia Salinas, Brianna Valadez, Ruby Cruz, Desiree Cervantez, and Jacqueline Velasco—were all high school friends with Mexican roots.

The accident happened on U.S. Highway 281 in Burnet County when a RAM 4500 truck towing a livestock trailer crossed into their lane, hitting another car before colliding with the women’s SUV, which flipped and caught fire. The other drivers had non-life-threatening injuries. The site is now marked with flowers, crosses, and hearts bearing their names.

Thalia was remembered as the group’s quiet organizer. Brianna, who was set to start nursing school, was “the life of the group” and “Daddy’s girl.” Ruby was known for her loyalty, Desiree for her faith and compassion, and Jacqueline for her mix of strength and tenderness.

Families and friends have flooded social media with tributes. Desiree’s mother called the loss “unreal and unfair,” sharing her daughter’s last texts and faith-filled Post-It notes.

The driver’s identity has not been released, and the investigation continues. Fundraising efforts remain active as the grieving families receive strong community support.