Joel Ellestad and 3 Others Die in Tragic Collision on Highway 259 [Bowie County, TX]

Bowie County, TX (July 13, 2026) — Joel Ellestad was among four people who lost their lives early Saturday in a head-on crash on U.S. Highway 259 in Bowie County.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, the collision happened around 3:20 a.m., approximately four miles south of DeKalb.

Investigators said a northbound vehicle crossed the center line into the southbound lane and collided head-on with an oncoming vehicle.

Authorities identified the victims in the southbound vehicle as 22-year-old Joel Ellestad, 24-year-old Payton Butler, and 20-year-old Ty Byrd. All three died at the scene.

The driver of the northbound vehicle, identified as 23-year-old Dru Wilson of DeKalb, also suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Officials continue to investigate the cause of the crash, and no additional details have been released.

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Sweet Lawyers extends its deepest sympathies to the families, friends, and loved ones of Joel Ellestad, Payton Butler, Ty Byrd, and Dru Wilson. We hope they find comfort, strength, and peace as they cope with this devastating loss.

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