Greenville, December 9, 2025

A head-on collision near Greenville has resulted in the death of Deputy Chief Austin Cooley, who was also a police officer. The accident occurred as he was returning home from duty. The Texas Department of Public Safety is investigating the circumstances of the crash. The community is mourning the loss of the dedicated public servant known for his commitment to safety and service. Support for Cooley’s family is being coordinated by local agencies.

Tragic Loss in Greenville: Deputy Fire Chief Killed in Collision

Greenville, Texas – A tragic accident occurred on Monday morning, December 8, 2025, resulting in the death of 26-year-old Deputy Chief Austin Cooley of South Hunt County Fire Rescue. Cooley was returning home from his duties as a police officer with the Kaufman Police Department when his vehicle collided head-on with another vehicle near the intersection of State Highway 34 and County Road 2186, approximately one mile south of Greenville. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of the collision is under investigation, and authorities have not released further details at this time.

Accident Details

The incident took place around 8:00 AM on December 8, 2025. Cooley was driving northbound in his 2005 Honda Accord when, for reasons yet to be determined, his vehicle crossed into the southbound lane and collided head-on with a 2013 Dodge Ram pickup. Emergency responders arrived promptly, but despite their efforts, Cooley was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Dodge Ram was transported to a local hospital; however, their condition has not been disclosed. The Texas Department of Public Safety is leading the investigation into the cause of the crash.

Background Information

Austin Cooley was a dedicated public servant, serving as a deputy fire chief with South Hunt County Fire Rescue and as a police officer with the Kaufman Police Department. 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, Hunt County. His untimely death has left a profound impact on the local community, and he will be deeply missed by his colleagues and the residents he served.

Community Response

The community has expressed an outpouring of support and condolences following the tragic loss of Deputy Chief Cooley. Local residents and fellow first responders have shared their memories and appreciation for his service. The South Hunt County Fire Rescue and Kaufman Police Department are coordinating to honor his memory and support his family during this difficult time. Further details regarding memorial services and community support initiatives will be announced as they become available.

Investigation and Updates

The Texas Department of Public Safety is conducting a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision. Authorities are working to determine the cause of the accident and to provide closure for the families involved. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. In the meantime, the community continues to mourn the loss of a dedicated public servant and extends its support to his family and colleagues.

Related Incidents in the Region

Unfortunately, this incident is part of a series of recent traffic-related fatalities in the North Texas area. On September 1, 2025, a four-vehicle crash in Tarrant County resulted in the deaths of a woman, her unborn child, and a man. Additionally, on July 1, 2025, a motorcycle collision in El Paso led to the death of a 26-year-old motorcyclist. These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges related to traffic safety in the region, underscoring the importance of vigilance and caution on the roads.

Safety Reminders

In light of these recent tragedies, local authorities are reminding all drivers to exercise caution and adhere to traffic laws to ensure the safety of all road users. Drivers are encouraged to stay alert, avoid distractions, and be mindful of road conditions, especially during adverse weather. The safety of our community depends on the collective responsibility of all individuals on the road.

Contact Information

For more information or to report any relevant details regarding the accident, please contact the Texas Department of Public Safety at 1-800-525-5555. Community members are also encouraged to reach out to local law enforcement agencies with any information that may assist in the investigation.

Conclusion

The loss of Deputy Chief Austin Cooley is a profound tragedy for the Greenville community and the broader North Texas area. His dedication to public service and the safety of his fellow citizens will be remembered. As investigations continue, the community stands united in support of his family and colleagues, honoring his memory and the invaluable contributions he made to the community.

FAQ

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Community Mourns Loss of Deputy Fire Chief Austin Cooley

Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER

The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.