Grieving families are demanding justice after a crash on Highway 281 in Burnet County claimed the lives of five young women from the Dallas area.
The victims — Thalia Salinas, Ruby Cruz, Brianna Valadez, Desiree Cervantez, and Jacqueline Velazco — were close friends, described by loved ones as “like sisters.”
Birthday trip ends in tragedy
The crash happened two weeks ago as the group was headed to Kingsland to celebrate Thalia’s 23rd birthday.
According to investigators, a truck pulling a livestock trailer veered into oncoming traffic, hitting multiple vehicles. The SUV carrying the women flipped and caught fire.
Driver charged, families want more
The driver, Kody Lane Talley, is facing five counts of manslaughter, but families say that’s not enough. They’re questioning why Talley — who has 22 prior criminal charges, including two DWIs — was not tested for alcohol or drugs at the scene, and why he was arrested 11 days later.
Sister remembers Ruby Cruz
“Honestly, right now, I’m speechless. Still shocked. I just want the truth to come out. I just want justice to be served. These girls deserve justice,” said Ana Cruz, Ruby’s sister…