Jakendryck Collins killed in rollover crash on U.S. 77

Jeep overturned multiple times following tire blowout in Refugio County

March 24, 2026 | Refugio, TX

A 20-year-old Sugar Land resident, Jakendryck Collins, succumbed to injuries from a rollover accident on U.S. 77 in Refugio County.

Jakendryck Collins, 20, died after a rollover crash caused the vehicle he occupied to overturn on U.S. 77 in Refugio County.

What Happened in the Crash?

The incident occurred when a northbound 2015 Jeep Wrangler suffered a rear tire blowout around 1:54 p.m. on March 22, just south of the Victoria County line. The driver lost control, veering onto the east shoulder, where the vehicle flipped multiple times before coming to rest on its side.

• Location: U.S. 77, Refugio County, Texas, south of the Victoria County line
• Date and Time: March 22, 1:54 p.m.
• Vehicle Involved: 2015 Jeep Wrangler
• Primary Cause: Rear tire blowout
• Fatalities: Jakendryck Collins, 20, rear-seat passenger, ejected and airlifted to CHRISTUS Spohn Shoreline Hospital in Corpus Christi, pronounced dead on March 24 after 5 p.m.
• Injuries: Another rear-seat passenger was ejected and airlifted to the same hospital, and two other occupants were transported by EMS to Citizens Medical Center in Victoria
• Investigating Agency: Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS)

The Texas Department of Public Safety is leading the ongoing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.

Why Do Tire Blowouts Lead to Rollover Accidents?

Tire failures, particularly on high-speed roadways, pose severe risks due to the limited reaction time for drivers. Sudden deflation from factors like under-inflation, tread wear, or overheating can trigger sharp swerves, instability, and rollovers. Rear tire issues often exacerbate fishtailing and total loss of control.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), tire-related problems contribute to thousands of crashes annually. Below is a summary of key statistics on rollover crashes and tire blowouts:

These figures underscore the dangers of maintaining proper tire conditions, especially for off-road vehicles like Jeeps.

Legal Insights on Rollover Crashes

National legal analysts emphasize the need for thorough examinations in motor vehicle incidents involving mechanical failures.

“It is imperative to come to a determination of the exact cause of these types of accidents. An attorney has the resources to review applicable insurance coverage, hire witnesses, run background checks, and locate witnesses. We carefully guide the family of the victim through the process,” said Candice Bond, managing partner with Bond Legal.

In cases such as this, independent investigations help secure vital evidence beyond standard police reports.

“In addition to a police report, an attorney will carefully review what may have contributed to the crash,” said Bond. “A lawyer has the resources to hire witnesses, conduct drivers’ background checks, locate witnesses to the crash and review applicable insurance coverage. Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help guide an injury victim through what can be a complicated process.”

Key takeaways from analyst perspectives:

• Preserve evidence promptly to support potential claims
• Conduct background checks on all parties involved
• Evaluate insurance policies for adequate coverage
• Hire specialists to reconstruct accident sequences

Potential Wrongful Death Claims

Following the investigation, the family of Jakendryck Collins could pursue a wrongful death claim. Such actions allow relatives to seek compensation for loss of companionship, pain, suffering, and emotional distress after devastating crashes like this rollover.

"The stress and sorrow can be extremely overwhelming after losing a loved one in an accident," said Stefano Formica, of counsel at Bond Legal. "We understand just what families are forced to go through, and protecting their rights is vital. A wrongful death lawyer will stay updated on the official investigation and help ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected," added Formica.

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