HARDIN COUNTY, TX — A community is heartbroken following a devastating crash that claimed the lives of two 18-year-old best friends, Riley Ard of Buna and Tracyn Brady of Orangefield, late Thursday night on FM 92 north of Silsbee.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the collision occurred around 11:30 p.m. when Ard, driving a Honda Accord, attempted to pull out of a gas station parking lot onto FM 92 near FM 1122. The vehicle was struck by a northbound tow truck. Authorities say Ard failed to yield to the truck, and the force of the impact proved fatal.

Riley Ard was pronounced dead at the scene. His passenger and closest friend, Tracyn Brady, was rushed to CHRISTUS St. Elizabeth Hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. The two had just graduated high school in May and were on their way back from a nearby store when the crash occurred.

“They had just left Riley’s house,” said Ashley Hall Brady, Tracyn’s mother. “They went to the store and were heading home. They were always together. Riley and Tracyn were inseparable.”

Ashley shared photos and warm memories of her son, who she said was full of heart and always willing to help those around him.

“He was truly one of a kind — the kind of son every mother hopes for,” she said.
“Out of my five boys, Tracyn was the most caring, respectful, and loving. He would do anything for anyone. That was just who he was.”

Tracyn spent his freshman year at Orangefield High School before transferring to Buna High School, where he completed the rest of his education. Recently, he had joined the union and was preparing to begin a career as a substation technician—a path that excited him and made his family proud.

As the community reels from this tragic loss, Buna Independent School District released a public statement expressing their condolences and opening their doors to grieving students and staff.

“Our prayers and deepest sympathies go out to their families, friends, and all those who loved them,” the district wrote in part.
“Our counselors will be available to support anyone who needs a safe space to talk, process emotions, or simply sit with someone who cares.”

The accident comes less than a week after another fatal crash in the same region claimed the lives of four members of the Smart family, also on FM 92. That collision, involving a UTV and an 18-wheeler, occurred near Jim Burns Road, adding to the string of heartbreaking incidents that have left residents shaken and grieving.

Both Riley and Tracyn are remembered not only for their deep friendship but also for the promise they held as young men stepping into adulthood. Tributes from friends, family, and classmates have flooded social media—photos of football games, memories from school halls, and heartfelt messages that speak of lives gone too soon.

Funeral arrangements are currently being made, and both families are receiving support from their respective communities.

As the sun sets on a week marked by loss, the spirit of unity in Hardin County, Buna, and Orangefield shines through the sorrow. These two young men are gone far too soon, but their memory will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew and loved them.