Head-On Collision Claims Life of 3-Year-Old

GILMER — A two vehicle wreck near Gilmer claims the life of a 3-year-old boy. It happened Saturday afternoon around 3:40 on Hwy 155 just north of Golf Road. The Department of Public Safety says a Jeep Wrangler driven by a 16-year-old crossed over into oncoming traffic and hit a Chevy Malibu head-on. The occupants of the Malibu were Ken and Jennifer Danapas, Big Sandy, their newborn baby girl, along with their son, Luke. Luke was air-lifted to Children’s Hospital in Dallas where he was pronounced dead Sunday morning, his 3rd birthday and Mother’s Day. The family and the teen driver received minor or no injuries. All parties were wearing seatbelts and the children were in child safety seats. The driver received a citation for being on the wrong side of the road. It’s believed he fell asleep. The investigation is still underway.

A tragedy fund has been set up: “Ken Danapas Special Fund” and donations can be made at any Austin Bank with a notation that it is for the special fund or by mailing a check to Austin Bank, PO Box 748, Big Sandy, TX. 75755.