Greenville, December 9, 2025
Deputy Chief Austin Cooley, a 26-year-old dedicated first responder, tragically died in a head-on traffic collision near Greenville. The accident occurred at the intersection of State Highway 34 and County Road 2186 while Cooley was returning home from his duties with the Kaufman Police Department. While the investigation is ongoing, this incident highlights the risks faced by first responders and the impact of such losses on the community.
Greenville, Texas
South Hunt County Deputy Fire Chief Dies in Traffic Collision
Deputy Chief Austin Cooley, 26, tragically lost his life in a head-on collision near Greenville on December 8, 2025, while returning home from his duties with the Kaufman Police Department.
The accident occurred approximately one mile south of Greenville, at the intersection of State Highway 34 and County Road 2186. 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 truck. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the pickup truck’s condition remains unknown, as authorities have not released further details. An investigation into the cause of the collision is ongoing.
Cooley was a dedicated first responder who served both the South Hunt County Fire Rescue and 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, attended Collin County Community College and Dallas College’s Eastfield Campus, and most recently resided in Wolfe City, Hunt County.
This incident underscores the inherent risks faced by first responders and the profound impact of their loss on the communities they serve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What happened in the traffic accident involving Deputy Chief Austin Cooley?
Deputy Chief Austin Cooley, 26, tragically lost his life in a head-on collision near Greenville on December 8, 2025, while returning home from his duties with the Kaufman Police Department.
Where did the accident occur?
The accident occurred approximately one mile south of Greenville, at the intersection of State Highway 34 and County Road 2186.
What were the circumstances of the collision?
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 truck. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the pickup truck’s condition remains unknown, as authorities have not released further details. An investigation into the cause of the collision is ongoing.
What is known about Deputy Chief Austin Cooley?
Cooley was a dedicated first responder who served both the South Hunt County Fire Rescue and 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, attended Collin County Community College and Dallas College’s Eastfield Campus, and most recently resided in Wolfe City, Hunt County.
What is the current status of the investigation?
An investigation into the cause of the collision is ongoing. Authorities have not released further details regarding the circumstances of the accident or the condition of the other driver involved.
Key Features of the Incident
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Approximately one mile south of Greenville, at the intersection of State Highway 34 and County Road 2186. |
| Involved Parties | Deputy Chief Austin Cooley (driver of the Honda Accord) and an unidentified driver of a 2013 Dodge Ram pickup truck. |
| Outcome | Cooley was pronounced dead at the scene; the condition of the other driver remains unknown. |
| Investigation Status | Ongoing; authorities have not released further details regarding the cause of the collision or the condition of the other driver. |
| Deputy Chief Cooley’s Background | Served with South Hunt County Fire Rescue and Kaufman Police Department; grew up in North Texas; attended Collin County Community College and Dallas College’s Eastfield Campus; resided in Wolfe City, Hunt County. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tragic Loss in Greenville: Deputy Fire Chief Killed in Collision
Community Mourns Loss of Deputy Fire Chief Austin Cooley
Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
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