Cooper Woodrome dies in multi-vehicle crash on Highway 12 in Vidor

Impaired driver involved in crash near Evangeline Drive left mother seriously injured

April 24, 2026 | Vidor, TX

Authorities in Vidor, Texas, reported a tragic three-vehicle crash that claimed the life of a young child and left his mother with serious injuries. 

The incident occurred on Highway 12, highlighting ongoing concerns about impaired driving in the region.

Cooper Woodrome, 3, died after a three-vehicle crash in the 3000 block of Highway 12 near Evangeline Drive in Vidor.

What Happened in the Crash?

The accident took place at approximately 9:30 p.m. in the 3000 block of Highway 12 near Evangeline Drive, about 12 miles northeast of Beaumont. Investigators from the sheriff's office determined that an impaired driver was responsible for the collision.

• Victim: Cooper Woodrome, 3 years old, who succumbed to his injuries at CHRISTUS Southeast Texas - St. Elizabeth hospital in Beaumont.
• Injured Party: Katelynn Ann Woodrome, the child's mother, who sustained serious injuries.
• Suspect: Joseph Frank Green, 56, of Vidor, arrested for intoxication manslaughter and booked into Orange County Jail.
• Additional Information: Further details about the crash sequence remain under investigation.

A GoFundMe campaign has been established to support Katelynn Ann Woodrome and the family with medical bills and funeral expenses. It is available here.

Why Do These Accidents Happen? The Dangers of Drunk Driving

Drunk driving remains a leading cause of fatal crashes across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), impaired drivers contribute to thousands of deaths annually.

These figures underscore the preventable nature of such tragedies and the need for stricter enforcement and public awareness.

Legal Insights on Impaired Driving Crashes

Newsline consulted national legal analysts to provide a perspective on incidents involving impaired drivers.

“In cases such as this, separate from any criminal charges, affected families may pursue compensation through civil actions against the at-fault party,” said Candice Bond, managing partner of Bond Legal. “Beyond law enforcement efforts, legal representation can involve re-interviewing witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and securing records from the responsible driver. This support helps families navigate their grief while ensuring accountability for reckless behavior.”

• Civil lawsuits can cover medical costs, lost companionship, and emotional distress.
• Investigations often include blood-alcohol testing to establish liability.
• Families benefit from compassionate guidance during vulnerable periods.

“A wrongful death occurs when negligence, such as driving under the influence, leads to a fatality,” said Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “In vehicle accidents caused by unsafe practices like intoxication or distracted driving, surviving family members typically have grounds for civil claims against the motorist.”

For the family of Cooper Woodrome, a wrongful death claim could address funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and suffering. Similarly, Katelynn Ann Woodrome may qualify for a personal injury claim encompassing rehabilitation, lost income, and trauma.

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