Procession planned for fallen fire chief

EAST TEXAS — Mabank Fire Chief Charlie Woodard was fatally struck by a pickup truck while directing traffic after the Mabank Rodeo on Saturday.

According to the Mabank Police Department, of which Woodard was also a member, a procession is expected to begin at 11 a.m. on Tuesday and will exit U.S. Highway 175 onto State Highway 198, traveling south to Mason Street.

Woodard had served with the City of Mabank since 2018. He also worked as the community’s Fire Marshal and as a Mabank Police Department officer. He was recognized as one of the city’s employees of the month in Feb. 2025.

“Thank you for the overwhelming love, prayers, and support you have shown the Woodard family, Mabank Fire & Rescue, and the Mabank Police Department during this difficult time,” the department said.

Funeral arrangements for Woodard will be announced in the near future, the department said.